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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 Chanel is lining up some splendid weeks at the Grove in Los Angeles. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2025 Harden’s Clippers tenure has been a splendid reminder of his intelligence and ability to lift a franchise’s floor in the regular season. Shane Young, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 United were purposeful and tenacious from the start and cruised to an early lead courtesy of a splendid solo goal from Bizet in the sixth minute. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025 The weather forecast for the Royals’ 2025 season opener is splendid. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 24 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • In an era that looked as if it might be defined by an American man of depraved cruelty, corruption, and shame, what a magnificent thing the Catholic Church has done.
    Jason Lemon, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 May 2025
  • One-day entry costs $60 ($25 for students), or $80 for unlimited visits through Tuesday, a modest price for a magnificent experience to see masterpieces that may be on view for the first or last time.
    Natasha Gural, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • That means that barring a massive night by Brunson -- who is dealing with two excellent perimeter defenders in Jrue Holiday and Derrick White -- the Celtics should be able to not only win, but cover, for the second game in a row.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025
  • The Spa The wellness spaces were not yet ready during my visit, so the hotel arranged an excellent massage in my suite.
    David Shortell, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Stargazing North Carolinians are in luck this month – one of astronomy’s most dazzling phenomena will be visible soon.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025
  • As for her accessories, the actress kept her look minimal, favoring a few dazzling rings.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • The wedding went off without a hitch, a glorious event on a glorious August day.
    Lian Dolan, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • This title is up for grabs in the most glorious of ways.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • And now more people can experience this wonderful adventure on Netflix starting May 15, 2025.
    Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
  • Its deep, shiny green foliage is a wonderful complement to the perfectly peachy hue of each rose.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • To the visible eye, every dress is in incredible condition—luminous colors, embroideries from more than a century ago that shimmer anew, each silhouette fitted impeccably on the mannequin—and for some visitors, this will prove the most remarkable part of the show.
    Amy Verner, Vogue, 7 May 2025
  • Her luminous journey has been showcased in prominent media, including South Jersey Magazine.
    Connie Etemadi, USA Today, 7 May 2025
Adjective
  • Former University of Kansas guard Christian Braun turned in an epic performance in an elimination NBA playoff game Thursday night, helping keep alive the Denver Nuggets’ hopes of advancing to the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 16 May 2025
  • An epic guide to the best motels in California The motel, a word born in California, turns 100 this year.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Comment Wow, what a terrific series finale to Luthen, the acclaimed Disney+ show about the rebel who challenged an Empire, and also all of the other rebels, mostly by lecturing them incessantly.
    Jesse Hassenger, Vulture, 14 May 2025
  • Already an Olympic bronze medalist thanks to her play for Team USA's 3 vs. 3 squad at the 2024 Paris games, Van Lith concluded a terrific NCAA career with a final season starring in the Big 12 for Texas Christian University.
    Alex Kirschenbaum, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

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