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 In its many guises, idolatry has survived, despite regular and often cataclysmic proof of its dangers, for centuries and many people will consider a much-larger-than-life golden statue of a president to be perfectly splendid. Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2026 Hall’s writing is splendid and inventive. The Know, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2026 Both works, with aptly tangy orchestrations, got splendid performances, with particularly fine solos from principals Alexander Kerr (violin), Gregory Raden (clarinet) and James Romeo (piccolo). Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 27 Mar. 2026 The cherry blossoms are opening & putting on a splendid spring spectacle. Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • And while several must-see redwood groves dot Northern California, in my opinion, driving the Avenue of the Giants is the easiest way to get up close and personal with these magnificent trees.
    Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Apr. 2026
  • And Fitzgerald, coming off a magnificent six-interception freshman season, can play nickel skillfully if needed.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 18 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • It’s been wonderful over the five generations.
    Devon Ivie, Vulture, 21 Apr. 2026
  • Bringing it back to America is wonderful.
    Andy Greene, Rolling Stone, 21 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Irish rebounded from a uptight opening performance against England with a dazzling effort in their first test in Galway.
    ABC News, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2026
  • The waters off the coast of Oia (and all of Santorini) are nothing short of spectacular, with dazzling shades of blue that can only truly be appreciated in person.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Guests can also socialize around the outdoor pool and pool bar, another glorious sunset viewing location.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026
  • But the sandweeshes begin with a golden and glorious taboon bread — or rather Abdullah’s fantastic interpretation, which is similar to focaccia.
    Louisa Kung Liu Chu, Chicago Tribune, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • This premise, bolstered by excellent performances all around, could easily have sustained a totally enjoyable TV show.
    Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 24 Apr. 2026
  • Both strikers demand attention from defenders but are excellent off-the-ball runners too.
    Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 23 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Think airy florals, luminous citrus, and marine notes that evoke golden hour walks, rooftop soirées, and summer Fridays.
    Kiana Murden, Vogue, 16 Apr. 2026
  • The corona is extremely faint compared to the luminous disk of the sun, which outshines it a million times, unless hidden behind special instruments called occulters.
    Tereza Pultarova, Space.com, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The Toronto Blue Jays, meanwhile, are one of the worst teams, which almost no one could’ve predicted after last year’s epic World Series.
    Paul Sullivan, Chicago Tribune, 19 Apr. 2026
  • Senior attackman Enzo Serio continued his epic season, too, scoring a hat trick as the Eagles remained perfect (8-0) with a convincing 8-2 romp of archrival Xaverian at home.
    Brendan Connelly, Boston Herald, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • That dynamic reflected what’s become the new world order for the Chiefs, whose superb 2022 draft class was highlighted by McDuffie.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The superb dry martini includes a splash of chamomile while La Violetera pays homage to Madrid’s traditional violet candies.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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