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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 The weather forecast for the Royals’ 2025 season opener is splendid. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 24 Mar. 2025 Walt Spangler uses every inch of the Guthrie’s proscenium stage to make a grand living room of the space, full of big chandeliers and splendid little details. Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 21 Mar. 2025 The best in the live-action genre to date remain Bill Condon’s blockbuster Beauty and the Beast and Kenneth Branagh’s splendid Cinderella. Pete Hammond, Deadline, 19 Mar. 2025 And for Sanders and Ward, one of those people is their shared personal quarterback coach, Darrell Colbert Jr. Once a splendid quarterback in his own right, Colbert grew up playing football at the highest level one can in high school – in the state of Texas. Mat Issa, Forbes, 6 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Ashford Castle – Ireland Originating from the 13th century, the magnificent Ashford Castle has a rich history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand luxury retreat adorned with antiques and artwork.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The main building, which was completed in 1932, has a magnificent 293-foot dome covered in real gold leaf.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • He’s been excellent in dealing with traffic, as the Golden Knights put more bodies in front of him on Tuesday than pretty much the first four games.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025
  • At a minimum, professionals are looking for dependable inventory, top-quality and professional-grade equipment, effortless trade-ins, excellent customer service and reliable and fast repairs.
    Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Come for breakfast or a light lunch and stay for their dazzling cheese selection—over 150 varieties served with the kind of attention to detail that makes even a simple sandwich feel sublime.
    Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 24 Apr. 2025
  • The movie, a dazzling retelling of a mythic boy-god, has grossed an astonishing US$2 billion worldwide, outperforming many Hollywood releases.
    Shaoyu Yuan, The Conversation, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The venue: the glorious TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Mallorca may be known for its nightlife, its glorious beaches and lately, unfortunately, some of its tourism growing pains.
    Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Katy Perry reportedly sang ‘Its a wonderful world,’ Gayle King beamed in zero gravity, as Lauren Sánchez—pilot, philanthropist, and Jeff Bezos’s fiancée, led Blue Origin’s first all-female crew to the edge of space.
    Gemma Allen, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
  • There’s the potential to still reach 94 points, which might not quite have the same sheen to it as the 99 points achieved by Liverpool’s last title-winning side in 2019-20 but should still be recognised as a wonderful achievement.
    Gregg Evans, New York Times, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • But the overall vibe is luminous and joyful — almost celebratory.
    Ernesto Lechner, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2025
  • The silky formula glides on, leaving skin luminous and smooth.
    Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The welcoming narration is a helpful and fun accompaniment on the epic ride.
    DeVonne Goode, Parents, 22 Apr. 2025
  • Rather than the epic battles of good vs. evil that ground the Skywalker saga, Andor's focus is the human cost of rebellion and harsh realities of a prolonged uprising against an authoritarian regime.
    Megan McCluskey, Time, 22 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Possible wildcard: Lea Salonga, Peters’ castmate in the Sondheim revue, turns in a terrific Everything’s Coming Up Roses.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Catcher Landon Hodge is terrific defensively and first baseman Josh Stonehouse has supplied surprising power.
    Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 30 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

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