Definition of splendidnext
1
2
3

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective splendid contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of splendid are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When can glorious be used instead of splendid?

The synonyms glorious and splendid are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

Where would gorgeous be a reasonable alternative to splendid?

The meanings of gorgeous and splendid largely overlap; however, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

In what contexts can resplendent take the place of splendid?

The words resplendent and splendid can be used in similar contexts, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When would sublime be a good substitute for splendid?

In some situations, the words sublime and splendid are roughly equivalent. However, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When is superb a more appropriate choice than splendid?

The words superb and splendid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of splendid And the country sure does look splendid through the windows of brand new cars, upscale hotels and expensive ski resorts. Lorraine Ali, Los Angeles Times, 21 Aug. 2026 Billy Wilder’s splendid film noir sees an insurance agent (Fred MacMurray) conspire with an alluring housewife (Barbara Stanwyck) to murder her husband for a hefty payout. Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026 In this splendid and very hot outfit, completed with spindly heeled sandals, Allie reluctantly toddles off into the night to join her glimmering, mini-skirted sisters. Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 5 Aug. 2026 Budapest has marvelous music and museums, and plenty to see and do, and this is a splendid—and central—place to stay to start exploring. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Originally intended for Florence Cathedral’s roof, the statue proved too heavy to hoist and too magnificent to place so high.
    Alicja Zelazko, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Sep. 2026
  • The front of the enormous building faces the magnificent Place Vendôme.
    David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • The coast on this part of Tuscany is a little wild, but wonderful for swimming, and guests have access to the boat for excursions to nearby islands and morning swims off secret coves.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026
  • Gloria lived a full, wonderful life filled with friends and great conversations and worthy causes.
    Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Put a small telescope on Venus this week and its appearance is completely different from the dazzling dot seen with the naked eye.
    Jamie Carter, Space.com, 4 Sep. 2026
  • On September 3, Sweeney made a dazzling entrance at an Armani Beauty dinner in Venice.
    Hannah Malach, InStyle, 4 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • In their new home, the past clings to Everton; restless, a bad joke, craving more, loud, glorious.
    George Caulkin, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
  • This is The Fantasticks, known and adored across the globe, in a Broadway premiere that brings glorious new life to the beloved classic.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 5 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Lampard felt his players deserved a point after creating several excellent chances.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • Picturesque views of the surrounding Casco Bay are abundant, and its consistently excellent food scene has made the city a culinary hot spot for the ages.
    Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 7 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Dozens of very luminous stellar cluster members are known, but this area likely has far more stars that are fainter hidden behind a vast smog of opaque dust between the center of the galaxy and the sun.
    Phil Plait, Scientific American, 4 Sep. 2026
  • These tools and expert tips are your best weapon for reclaiming a smooth, even toned and luminous complexion.
    Maggie Ryan, Flow Space, 1 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • On Day 9, a big move at the top of the women’s game, two epic men’s matches and some surprising doubles drama.
    Ava Wallace, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • But Khrzhanovsky’s original idea, for an epic biopic on the life of Landau, never completely disappeared though.
    Scott Roxborough, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Typically, Mora will pick up the ball in the left channel and run at a defender, before slowing to a jog, then use his superb balance to burst past his flat-footed opponent on either side, like in this example against Fiorentina last month.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
  • Cam Schlitter gave up one run and two hits in eight superb innings, and the New York Yankees scored five two-out runs in the 10th in a series-clinching, 6-3 victory over the Angels on Wednesday night at Angel Stadium.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 3 Sep. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 10 Sep. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster