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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 Chanel is lining up some splendid weeks at the Grove in Los Angeles. Chris Gardner, HollywoodReporter, 16 Apr. 2025 Harden’s Clippers tenure has been a splendid reminder of his intelligence and ability to lift a franchise’s floor in the regular season. Shane Young, Forbes.com, 13 Apr. 2025 United were purposeful and tenacious from the start and cruised to an early lead courtesy of a splendid solo goal from Bizet in the sixth minute. Megan Feringa, New York Times, 13 Apr. 2025 The weather forecast for the Royals’ 2025 season opener is splendid. Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 24 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • In one of his only performances as an ostensibly normal guy, Cruise brings magnificent dirtbag energy to War of the Worlds' Ray, a working-class deadbeat dad whose one weekend with his kids (Dakota Fanning and Justin Chatwin) overlaps with an alien invasion.
    Wesley Stenzel, EW.com, 24 May 2025
  • Heart rate rises, breath softens, and eyes glue to this magnificent 500-pound mammal that could rip me to pieces with the simple swipe of its striped paw.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Give your wooden nickel to the mixologist, take your pick between La Babia, an excellent margarita, or Three Emmas, grab a book off the shelf, and take a seat.
    Mae Hamilton, Travel + Leisure, 24 May 2025
  • The enchanting espionage comedy flaunts an excellent Benicio del Toro as a 1950s industrialist, who, after surviving an attempt on his life, names his estranged daughter Liesl (Mia Threapleton) as heir to his empire.
    David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 24 May 2025
Adjective
  • Stargazing North Carolinians are in luck this month – one of astronomy’s most dazzling phenomena will be visible soon.
    Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 15 May 2025
  • As for her accessories, the actress kept her look minimal, favoring a few dazzling rings.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • The wedding went off without a hitch, a glorious event on a glorious August day.
    Lian Dolan, People.com, 20 May 2025
  • This title is up for grabs in the most glorious of ways.
    Sam Amick, New York Times, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • And now more people can experience this wonderful adventure on Netflix starting May 15, 2025.
    Travis Bean, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
  • Colombia’s coastal cities are famous for their cuisine, but don’t overlook their wonderful street foods.
    Cat Sposato, AFAR Media, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • But for dryer skin types, this step can be skipped so the Glow Mist can easily lock everything in while keeping the skin luminous, fresh and protected throughout the day.
    Jessica Ourisman, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
  • What finally elevated my perspective was a luminous Book that perfectly alchemized my thoughts, beliefs, with human nature.
    Angie Martoccio, Rolling Stone, 13 May 2025
Adjective
  • An epic guide to the best motels in California The motel, a word born in California, turns 100 this year.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 16 May 2025
  • Former University of Kansas guard Christian Braun turned in an epic performance in an elimination NBA playoff game Thursday night, helping keep alive the Denver Nuggets’ hopes of advancing to the 2025 NBA Western Conference Finals.
    Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 16 May 2025
Adjective
  • Even with challenging oppositions, Siakam has been terrific throughout the playoffs.
    Tony East, Forbes.com, 25 May 2025
  • The actor stars opposite a terrific female cast in a story that plays out like a 1950s Hollywood weepie, piling on the tears but not always doing it convincingly.
    Jordan Mintzer, HollywoodReporter, 23 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 29 May. 2025.

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