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 The neighborhood/area The Berkshires, Massachusetts is riddled with dozens of small towns, each with their own unique set of splendid restaurants, hotels, and attractions—and all within reasonable driving distance from one another. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Oct. 2026 In a town full of historically important homes, it is known as one of the more splendid examples dating back to Lawrence’s earliest days. — Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 14 Oct. 2026 In the rapidly fading light, a splendid buck muley took half a step forward and looked straight toward me. — Erwin A. Bauer, Outdoor Life, 14 Oct. 2026 Mizrahi has not only the chutzpah to reveal the rainbow that is his personality but the panache to revel in its many splendid colors—not all of which are flattering. — Charles Gandee, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Turning slowly, Snyder saw a magnificent bull with heavy mahogany antlers walk into the clearcut.
    — Rich LaRocco, Outdoor Life, 2 Nov. 2026
  • The film, set in the magnificent highlands of Montenegro’s Sinjajevina plateau, centers on Gara and her 13-year-old daughter Nada.
    — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 30 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Their sorrowful slow-dance, at first with the air and then with each other, set to the ensemble evoking the crooning of a record player, is just wonderful.
    — Sara Holdren, Vulture, 3 Nov. 2026
  • There is a wonderful offhand quality to their scenes together.
    — Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 3 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • That's 12 times brighter than its nearest planetary competitor, Jupiter and a full 25 times more dazzling than Sirius, the brightest of all stars.
    — Joe Rao, Space.com, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Amal Clooney has always been a fan of a statement look, never missing an opportunity to wear archival couture in Cannes, punchy prints in the Med, or dazzling sequins on the red carpet.
    — María Munsuri, Vogue, 6 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • All evening, it is excellently placed for telescopic viewing of its glorious ball and rings.
    — Joe Rao, Space.com, 1 Nov. 2026
  • But her story was neither a glorious adventure nor a laughing matter.
    — Ethan Teekah All, Encyclopedia Britannica, 29 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Bold from brown butter and balsamic vinegar and bright from lemon, the crunchy topping is an excellent foil to the sweetness of roasted squash.
    — Shilpa Uskokovic, Bon Appetit Magazine, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Their bench even has some guys providing excellent backup options.
    — David Troy OutKick, FOXNews.com, 2 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Carl Andre, Dan Flavin, and the minimalists learned from Brancusi’s serial imagery and the anonymity of his luminous, streamlined forms.
    — Michael Brenson, Vogue, 1 Nov. 2026
  • The simple-but-elegant cut was made even more glamorous by the luminous nature of the fabric, which glittered underneath the lights on Friday’s red carpet.
    — Erin Wisti, Footwear News, 31 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • For 28 years and one day, Karl Bushby took the long way home on an epic odyssey of human endurance back to northern England.
    — Ramy Inocencio, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Golden State Valkyries forward Gabby Williams says her team's epic return in Game 7 of the WNBA Finals, which earned them their first WNBA title Saturday night against the Atlanta Dream, was always in the cards.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 2 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Those hiding from family this Thanksgiving can take solace in a cornucopia of superb TV offerings.
    — David Faris, TheWeek, 6 Nov. 2026
  • Throughout, there’s a lingering sadness, which is properly explored in a superb episode made up of a trifecta of flashbacks, and his dour constitution still pairs perfectly with Helen’s reassuring nature.
    — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 5 Nov. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 9 Nov. 2026.

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