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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 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 Walt Spangler uses every inch of the Guthrie’s proscenium stage to make a grand living room of the space, full of big chandeliers and splendid little details. Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 21 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Ashford Castle – Ireland Originating from the 13th century, the magnificent Ashford Castle has a rich history, evolving from a medieval fortress to a grand luxury retreat adorned with antiques and artwork.
    Jim Dobson, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025
  • The main building, which was completed in 1932, has a magnificent 293-foot dome covered in real gold leaf.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • He’s been excellent in dealing with traffic, as the Golden Knights put more bodies in front of him on Tuesday than pretty much the first four games.
    Michael Russo, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Pumpkin Seeds Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of iron.
    Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, RDN, Health, 30 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • These dazzling meteors are the result of debris left by Halley’s Comet burning up in Earth’s atmosphere.
    Kayla Randall, Smithsonian Magazine, 2 May 2025
  • The result is Evangeline vs. the Machine, a record that is both dazzling and challenging, and creates a listening experience that upends the idea of what country music is — or at least the type of country music that first made Church a Nashville star.
    Joseph Hudak, Rolling Stone, 2 May 2025
Adjective
  • But Campbell spoke in such a way that Patriots fans could put aside the arm length/wingspan jabber for just a bit and embrace New England’s glorious past while daydreaming about a promising future.
    Steve Buckley, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2025
  • The venue: the glorious TCL Chinese Theatre on Hollywood Boulevard.
    Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Washington Capitals, won 4-1 against Montreal Last week: 7 Sean: 4 Dom: 9 Pierre-Luc Dubois had a fine first round, but zero goals and two assists were still a step down from his wonderful regular season.
    Dom Luszczyszyn, New York Times, 2 May 2025
  • Miss Nellie's is a lovely vibe post-show, and have a wonderful assortment of cocktails and mocktails.
    Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 1 May 2025
Adjective
  • But the overall vibe is luminous and joyful — almost celebratory.
    Ernesto Lechner, Rolling Stone, 26 Apr. 2025
  • The silky formula glides on, leaving skin luminous and smooth.
    Nora Colomer, FOXNews.com, 23 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • In the case of former journalist Miguel Gálvez, his particular obsession has a lofty specificity to it, the makings of an epic crusade.
    Ernesto Lechner, Rolling Stone, 3 May 2025
  • All of them have a track record of battling, years of grinding to — and at — the top, epic moments fueled by legendary resolve.
    Marcus Thompson II, New York Times, 3 May 2025
Adjective
  • Possible wildcard: Lea Salonga, Peters’ castmate in the Sondheim revue, turns in a terrific Everything’s Coming Up Roses.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Gustavsson was terrific, stopping 23 of 25 shots to give the Wild a chance.
    Joe Smith, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 9 May. 2025.

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