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 There are fun villains; Reggie’s nemesis is a sneakily vicious NFL alum (Craig Robinson) with the splendid name Jerry Basmati. Judy Berman, Time, 20 Feb. 2026 In addition to a splendid burger, La Birra Bar, which has locations in North Miami Beach, Wynwood, Fort Lauderdale, Weston and Argentina, has a spirited team, who shouted and hugged each other and celebrated vigorously after the victory was announced. Connie Ogle updated February 20, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2026 And yet the miles of glorious golden sand – one of the only sandy beaches in Sussex – is undeniably delightful, and just nestled behind the dunes is a splendid hotel, The Gallivant, which proclaims that happiness is a place, right here, in Camber. Felicity Capon, TheWeek, 19 Feb. 2026 This is just about the most visually splendid of the many Hindi spins on Wuthering Heights. Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 16 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • This mega-ship feels like a floating city built around a magnificent atrium instead of a town square.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026
  • This effect, known as Rayleigh scattering, is the same reason that the sky takes on magnificent shades of red and orange around sunset.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 23 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Service at the bars and restaurants on the ship was wonderful, too—attentive but never hovering.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026
  • Justin Trudeau – like him or don’t like him – Canadians are wonderful people.
    Lizzie Lanuza, StyleCaster, 24 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The flavors are just as dazzling as the visuals, with everything from classic fish balls and siu mai to snake soup and mock shark's fin, served up by food stalls that make Temple Street a foodie's dream.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
  • The dazzling foliage of 'Kaleidoscope' Abelia is accented by a flush of fragrant white blooms in spring and sporadic flowers throughout summer and fall.
    Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But for one glorious quarter on Sunday against the Nuggets, Podziemski finally received the not-so-subtle message the universe has been shooting his direction for months.
    Dieter Kurtenbach, Mercury News, 23 Feb. 2026
  • Finally, there's Canes & Tales, a speakeasy-style cocktail bar (again with glorious views) featuring ace mixologists and some hard-to-find sake.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Cats, after all, are excellent self cleaners.
    Popular Science Team, Popular Science, 27 Feb. 2026
  • Infiniti restaurant at Grace Bay Club is great for a very upscale evening, but Parallel 23 at The Palms, known for its fish, pasta, and excellent desserts, remains one of the very best meals of my trip.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The brightening and blurring properties come from bismuth oxychloride, a mineral that adds a light-reflecting luminous finish, and silicones that create the illusion of blurred skin.
    Essence Wiley, InStyle, 25 Feb. 2026
  • The tint can be used on its own or as a luminous, tone-evening foundation base; it can also be tapped into the high points of the face as a highlighter.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 23 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • McIlroy, beloved superstar, pulling off the epic comeback.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026
  • Additionally, stop near the state line closest to South Lake Tahoe for a scenic gondola ride to Heavenly Ski Resort, home to a viewing platform offering epic bird's-eye views of the lake.
    Skye Sherman, Travel + Leisure, 22 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The best binoculars, monoculars and telescopes for eclipse night will also be superb for planetary observing, deep-sky exploration, wildlife watching and travel.
    Jamie Carter, Space.com, 27 Feb. 2026
  • The service The friendly team offers guests a reliable and inspiring stay with superb facilities and services; attention to detail is consistent.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 28 Feb. 2026.

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