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 At Minnesota, Coyle has made splendid choices in Niko Medved and Dawn Plitzuweit as men’s and women’s basketball coaches. Charley Walters, Twin Cities, 14 Mar. 2026 Children—mostly girls—took pictures of the splendid colors of the sky and the shining sea. Yiyun Li, New Yorker, 1 Mar. 2026 Sautéeing is a splendid way to showcase the pure flavor of morels. Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Feb. 2026 The once-splendid Domus Aurea, as the villa was called, had been built on the vast amount of land that Nero claimed for himself after the Great Fire destroyed nearly three quarters of Rome’s districts. Nicole Krauss, Harpers Magazine, 24 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Natasha Joukovsky Considers Ahead-of-Their-Time Novels Cecilia and Evelina Cecilia—that is, Frances Burney’s magnificent second novel—is breaking my heart.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 Mar. 2026
  • The Sombrero Galaxy was imaged to magnificent effect by the Hubble Space Telescope — most recently to mark its 35th anniversary in space — which revealed its sweeping disk-like structure and pronounced dusty lanes shining beneath its glowing galactic core.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Coast Guard is a huge piece of this puzzle, and to be able to see the Coast Guard come to realization is wonderful.
    John Ramos, CBS News, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Something wonderful could drop into your lap in mid-June.
    Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 17 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • So why would the animal possess the same type of melanosomes that give birds their dazzling displays?
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2026
  • People find so much beauty in nature, from the dazzling colors of butterflies to the melodious songs of birds and the aromas of flowers.
    Logan S. James, The Conversation, 19 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Anjimile has never been in better voice, his breezy vibrato falling in the glorious shade between Sufjan Stevens and Cocteau Twins’ Elizabeth Fraser.
    Ben Cardew, Pitchfork, 20 Mar. 2026
  • And the greatest expression of care comes at the very last moment, in a final, glorious moment of surreal grace at the end of the novel.
    Isle McElroy, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Its keyboard and trackpad are mostly as excellent as those on a MacBook Air, only smaller.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 20 Mar. 2026
  • These cabins are located amongst the splendor of the Badlands National Park; expect to wake up surrounded by nature and excellent views.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The northern lights are a luminous glow seen around the magnetic poles of the Northern and Southern hemispheres, according to the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 18 Mar. 2026
  • This signature geometry changes the way light behaves within the diamond, resulting in a crisp, fluid, and unusually dimensional luminous quality.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 18 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The hunch was right, as the Gophers relished the roar of their fans at The Barn all the way through Amaya Battle's epic game-winner.
    CBS News, CBS News, 22 Mar. 2026
  • London’s Chessington World of Adventures will soon host the first Minecraft World theme park, opening in 2027, featuring the first ever Minecraft coaster, epic block built playscapes and themed retail and dining experiences.
    Glenn Garner, Deadline, 21 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Execution of Operation Epic Fury has been nothing less than superb.
    , FOXNews.com, 19 Mar. 2026
  • With four more wins, a superb player will morph into Arizona royalty and 25 years of frustration will melt away.
    Jon Wilner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.

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