Definition of splendidnext
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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 Both had expressed interest in re-upping after Bellinger put together a splendid debut season in the Bronx, but the team and the free agent haven’t been able to hammer out a deal yet. Gary Phillips, New York Daily News, 14 Jan. 2026 Blanchard loved the adventure and splendid isolation. Los Angeles Times, 11 Jan. 2026 Kaukonen has been a steady, welcome presence through the years, performing on his own as well as with the splendid bassist Jack Casady as Hot Tuna. Air Mail, 3 Jan. 2026 The result is an urgent, yet meditative record that crashes and swirls with splendid riffs and lyrics that toil over all the time that has passed. Maya Georgi, Rolling Stone, 30 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • But officiating grumbles aside, Hamburg were the story, giving a magnificent performance in spite of the imbalance between the two teams.
    Sebastian Stafford-Bloor, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026
  • The only way to arrive is by boat, which is precisely what makes this small but mighty island so magnificent.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Second, that Carrick was genuinely a player of wonderful ability, who was seen as a tremendous talent from a young age.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 3 Feb. 2026
  • Giving family members an opportunity to enjoy the cruise at their own pace can go a long way to creating a trip filled with wonderful memories, Denison says.
    Stacey Lastoe, Southern Living, 3 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Grammys coverage, which includes a full list of all the winners, the dazzling red carpet looks and more.
    McKinley Franklin, HollywoodReporter, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Some Tauruses might find themselves in the process of moving, changing their living space up or even hosting a dazzling home event.
    Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 31 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In the summertime, those same hills are alive with glorious hiking and biking among high mountain meadows and pristine lakes.
    Laura Itzkowitz, Travel + Leisure, 25 Jan. 2026
  • Geekie, who had one goal in 14 games, fanned on two glorious one-time attempts on the only power play in the period.
    Steve Conroy, Boston Herald, 25 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The German is an excellent all-round forward who excels in bringing the best out of the teammates around him.
    Graham Ruthven, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • While not every product in the brand’s SOS collection includes hypochlorous acid (an excellent anti-acneic ingredient), the serum does.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • While Tabouret’s work cloaks you in luminous hues, Jospin uses color much more sparingly.
    Stephanie Sporn, Vogue, 27 Jan. 2026
  • As for beauty, Sweeney wore glowy makeup, complete with luminous skin, rosy cheeks, and smoky eyeshadow.
    Christina Perrier, InStyle, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • An epic film that does justice to an epic book.
    Emily Temple, Literary Hub, 2 Feb. 2026
  • The Orpheus parade always rolls on the Monday immediately before Mardi Gras Day and culminates with the epic black-tie Orpheuscapade (more on that later).
    Skye Sherman, Southern Living, 1 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The food, its presentation and atmosphere is superb (the chef doubles as the DJ choosing music spontaneously based on his mood and the crowd).
    Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026
  • Although the superb New Zealand actor Temuera Morrison (Once Were Warriors, The Book of Boba Fett) is on hand to lend some gravitas to the proceedings, The Wrecking Crew is the sort of fun but forgettable action movie trifle that at least knows which side its popcorn is buttered.
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 26 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

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