Definition of sublimenext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sublime contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of sublime are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When can glorious be used instead of sublime?

The synonyms glorious and sublime are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When would gorgeous be a good substitute for sublime?

Although the words gorgeous and sublime have much in common, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is resplendent a more appropriate choice than sublime?

The words resplendent and sublime are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to sublime?

The meanings of splendid and sublime largely overlap; however, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When is it sensible to use superb instead of sublime?

While the synonyms superb and sublime are close in meaning, 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 sublime Messi kicked off the tournament with a hat trick in Argentina’s opener against Algeria, followed that with a brace against Austria and then came off the bench to score his sixth goal against Jordan with a sublime free kick. Michelle Kaufman, Miami Herald, 13 July 2026 His curler around Issa Diop was sublime and broke Morocco’s resistance. Liam Twomey, New York Times, 13 July 2026 Like Padirac, this charming, atmospheric cheese shop, La Maison du Fromage, in the medieval centre of Limoges, is a sublime subterranean experience. James Rampton, TheWeek, 9 July 2026 Unlike 2022’s sublime Most Normal, which was inspired by Earl Sweatshirt’s Some Rap Songs and the idea of making an album that flowed like a dream, there was no concept. Laura Snapes, Pitchfork, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • The Jules Rimet Trophy — named after the former FIFA president following his death in 1956 — had an astonishing history.
    Eduardo Tansley, New York Times, 19 July 2026
  • Because of this tremendous heat, hydrogen atoms in the inner core of stars are zipping along at incredible speeds and slamming into each other with astonishing violence.
    Mike Lynch, Twin Cities, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • As a witty nod to the noble milieu and the Sciò family’s former residency, a family tree of portraits by Gucci collaborator Ignasi Monreal, hangs in the piano room outside of the restaurant.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 July 2026
  • Warm, fuzzy feelings for noble stupidity are an American thing, especially in politics.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 4 July 2026
Adjective
  • There was something wonderful about the energy of the space—sprinkled with students diligently studying for final exams.
    Dana Kravis, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026
  • The airline’s business class is well worth the splurge, thanks to the delicious food and beverage offerings, comfortable seats, innovative programs, and wonderful service on board.
    Elizabeth Rhodes, Travel + Leisure, 14 July 2026
Adjective
  • There are good footballers, there are great footballers and then there is Messi, who plays as if he has been sent here from another dimension, a superior life form inside the 5ft 7in frame of a normal guy from Rosario, Argentina.
    Oliver Kay, New York Times, 19 July 2026
  • Healthcare's greatest crisis isn't financial or technological.
    Sachin H. Jain, Forbes.com, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • But the Orlando installation also will not have the amazing hillside setting with its valley and mountain views that the California original promises.
    Robert Niles, Oc Register, 21 July 2026
  • Harnessing the amazing benefits AI can provide means first developing your executive decision-making skills.
    Hanneke Antonelli, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Big Bend Sector has not experienced the high number of border crossings seen in recent years in other areas farther south along the Rio Grande or in Arizona or California, owing to the remote and challenging terrain on both sides of the border.
    ABC News, ABC News, 22 July 2026
  • The global luxury resale and collateral market has expanded rapidly as younger high-net-worth individuals and fashion collectors treat assets like investments.
    Tanya Akim, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026
Adjective
  • The following season, Newcastle came third in the Premier League and Andy Cole scored 41 goals, a miraculous rise by the standards of most clubs and vertiginous for Newcastle.
    George Caulkin, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • They’re tossed in a blend of malt-vinegar powder, sugar, salt, black pepper, and MSG, a miraculous combination that activates every sensory receptor simultaneously, and nearly blows out your palate for anything else.
    Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • Clearly, Americans didn’t do gallant failure, instead demanding domination over mere participation every time.
    Terry Baddoo, USA Today, 14 June 2026
  • Commandment was very gallant in defeat for trainer Brad Cox and looks to be on the improve after his seventh-place finish in the Kentucky Derby.
    Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 8 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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