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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 On top of his splendid on-court fit alongside the Big Three, Jones is cost-controlled through at least 2029. Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 With that already as a given for many of us, Neville’s movie serves as a splendid jukebox, offering rapid-fire clips that bowl you over anew with just how rapidly McCartney’s own synapses were firing on ingenious hit after hit. Chris Willman, Variety, 4 Sep. 2025 This fiery, splendid collection of songs should make listeners want to step up their efforts. Maura Johnston, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2025 Freeland was splendid, pitching 7 1/3 scoreless innings and giving up just five hits. Patrick Saunders, Denver Post, 13 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • All of them have been magnificent.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Sep. 2025
  • All of them have been magnificent.
    Steven J. Horowitz, Variety, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Harry Dean Stanton is excellent.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025
  • Moisture recovery ranged from good to excellent, with morning relative humidity levels between 55% and 88%.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 13 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • These autumn hues make the already dramatic Wyoming destination even more dazzling.
    Stephanie Vermillion, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2025
  • Elaborate dinner shows deliver dazzling performances alongside multi-course meals.
    Matthew Kayser, USA Today, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Angela Flournoy follows her highly honored first novel, The Turner House (2016), with an illuminating polyphonic exploration of the glorious heights and darkest lows of friendships among four women.
    Jane Ciabattari September 16, Literary Hub, 16 Sep. 2025
  • Liverpool vs Real Madrid, November 4 From Kevin De Bruyne’s glorious homecoming, to one that could be a more awkward affair as Trent Alexander-Arnold returns to Liverpool just months after leaving his boyhood club for Real Madrid.
    Dan Cancian, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • For years, those on the radical left have compared wonderful Americans like Charlie to Nazis and the world’s worst mass murderers and criminals.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Stargazing is a wonderful pursuit that appeals to both the casual and dedicated observer, but views outside of cities are often much clearer and brighter thanks to different levels of light pollution.
    Harry Bennett, Space.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The lightweight formula glides on with a refreshing tingle, then rinses away to reveal skin that feels softer, smoother, and more luminous.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 12 Sep. 2025
  • The nongreasy formula also delivers a luminous, glowy finish that even shoppers in their 80s can attest to.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Clark, who knelt beside Foo 30 years ago when the surfer was pulled lifeless from the sea, watched Slebir’s epic ride that day from the back of a Sea-Doo, set up to pull flailing surfers aboard.
    Julia Prodis Sulek, Mercury News, 13 Sep. 2025
  • American growth and opportunity in times like 1836-61 and 1865-1913—and even, sure enough, 1811-12—was epic.
    Brian Domitrovic, Forbes.com, 13 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • As always, the iPhone takes terrific photos.
    Eric Zeman, PC Magazine, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Now the Phils are desperate to keep the affable and articulate Ohio native, who has cultivated a reputation as a clubhouse leader and terrific teammate.
    Dan Schlossberg, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

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