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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 Eve’s traumatic childhood loss is seen in an exciting opening sequence, in which divers with crossbows emerge from the sea and promptly wipe out guards at a splendid coastal villa. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 4 June 2025 Golf fans are certain to delight in the property’s 18-hole lakeside course, with splendid views of El Yunque National Forest found all throughout the area, while the athletically-inclined are welcome to hit the tennis courts or spend an hour at the fitness center. Jared Ranahan, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 The Padres wore their splendid brown road tops yesterday for just the fifth time this season. Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 May 2025 Nembhard is also a splendid point-of-attack defender (95th percentile Defensive Estimated Plus-Minus, per Dunks & Threes), but he isn’t suited for handling stronger assignments. Mat Issa, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • And while in Reims, be sure to visit the magnificent Cathédrale de Reims.
    Joanne Shurvell, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • Guest stars like Bob Odenkirk, Andy Samberg, Sam Richardson, and Patti Harrison bring magnificent energy to their segments, but the show's success primarily hinges on Robinson's unique sensibilities as a performer.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • This would not have been possible without tireless work from our excellent lawyers @TheJusticeDept and our Solicitor General John Sauer.
    Hollie Silverman, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 June 2025
  • There are many excellent CRM platforms that are available at a much lower price point and that can serve the needs of most small and mid-sized businesses.
    Gene Marks, Forbes.com, 29 June 2025
Adjective
  • When Richard Ellmann’s James Joyce hit the shelves in 1959, the sheer size of the book (842 pages, 100 longer than Ulysses ) was as dazzling as the degree of detail.
    Eric Bulson, The Atlantic, 16 June 2025
  • Romance and your creative potential will be dazzling!
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 13 June 2025
Adjective
  • Find a theater near you and soak in that glorious AC while catching a flick or two to beat the heat.
    Staff report, Hartford Courant, 24 June 2025
  • There's nothing quite like basking in the sun on a glorious, care-free vacation day.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 24 June 2025
Adjective
  • Steve was a wonderful antidote to Miranda, and Joy is a wonderful antidote in a very different way.
    Daniel D'Addario, Variety, 20 June 2025
  • It is filled with many wonderful surprises discoverable to the 200,000-plus visitors who come during the busiest time (November to July) and escapade around its hilly terrain in the signature island vehicle, the mini Moke.
    Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • Glowing collarbones, shimmering shoulders, and luminous legs are all part of the summer story.
    Larry Stansbury, Essence, 27 June 2025
  • The color in the glass is a delicate but luminous pale pink, with reflections reminiscent of rose petals or light salmon.
    Elisabetta Tosi, Forbes.com, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • Arden’s production, at once intimate and epic, comes through beautifully nonetheless on the larger stage.
    Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 20 June 2025
  • Every suite features a private pool to watch those epic sunsets while the 3,230-square-foot Villa Diane also comes with a butler.
    Melinda Sheckells, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • The Packers failed to build on their terrific finish to the 2023 campaign, settled for the No. 7 seed in the NFC playoffs, and lost a Wild Card game to eventual Super Bowl champion Philadelphia.
    Rob Reischel, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025
  • Beyond features a farewell to Nimoy’s Spock and an image of Shatner’s crew from The Undiscovered Country, and otherwise has terrific character moments (particularly between Quinto and Karl Urban) and great action beats (like Kirk saving the day with the help of the Beastie Boys).
    Chris Snellgrove, EW.com, 30 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 4 Jul. 2025.

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