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 music is splendid, and it was shot in a very interesting way. Isaac Chotiner, New Yorker, 1 Feb. 2026 Most home cooks aren’t lucky enough to have such a splendid oven, so the directions here call for sautéing them in a skillet on top of the stove. Cathy Thomas, Oc Register, 26 Jan. 2026 Which was a splendid thing for the RedHawks, members of the MAC since 1947. Terence Moore, Forbes.com, 23 Jan. 2026 You will be met at the jetty in the shadow of the splendid ruin of Castle Tioram and skimmed across to Eilean Shona by boat. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Trump is in a position to add something magnificent to his legacy.
    Robert Yaro, New York Daily News, 10 Feb. 2026
  • For some, romance means rose petals, chilled champagne and magnificent views.
    Irenie Forshaw, TheWeek, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Playing a thinly disguised version of himself, Reynolds is, as Schneeberger and Neibaur point out, funny, exasperating, and moving, and Rifkin’s impeccable tailoring of the role to fit his star gives Reynolds a wonderful summation with which to end his career.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Welcome to the wonderful world of better coffee.
    Noah Kaufman, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • In front of a raucous home crowd, Italy held off Georgia for the bronze medal behind a dazzling free skate from Matteo Rizzo, who dropped to his knees on the ice and cried.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Feb. 2026
  • Chicago might not have necessarily gotten dazzling returns on its trades — nine second-round picks were acquired in the last week alone — but for a team that’s been stuck in Play-In Purgatory for years, the sense of direction is refreshing, at least.
    Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 6 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • That’s not something her human brain, for all its glorious complexity, could do on its own by studying the RNA data.
    Amber Dance, Quanta Magazine, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Without a captain on the bridge, this glorious ship could sink into the springtime again.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 7 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Six solid to excellent major leaguers, two average ones and 11 busts.
    Assistant Sports Editor, Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Use Dryer Balls to Keep Sheets Separated Dryer balls are an excellent tool for combating tangled sheets.
    Anyssa Roberts, The Spruce, 5 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The activist also went full glam on her flight, looking radiant in bronzy makeup, complete with dark eyeliner, fluttery eyelashes, fluffy eyebrows, luminous skin, and glossy lips.
    Christina Perrier, InStyle, 10 Feb. 2026
  • You’re left with a luminous finish that changes according to the light.
    Paola Zamarripa, Glamour, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Passion leads to tragedy in this epic tale ofdesire, scandal, and power.
    Kirby Adams, Louisville Courier Journal, 8 Feb. 2026
  • The world of fragrance has made a comeback of epic proportions in the past few years, with people shopping for their own signature scents with the help of social media experts and trying out new perfumes like never before.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • There’s a tension, too, between the observant realism of Layton’s style and the derivativeness of the plotting, though the three leads, all superb, smooth it over with considerable skill.
    Justin Chang, New Yorker, 13 Feb. 2026
  • Some offer sweeping waterfront views, others cozy corners made for lingering conversations, but all pair superb food with intimate ambiance.
    USA TODAY NETWORK, USA Today, 13 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.

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