Definition of sublimenext
1
2

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 The simplest, most sublime frozen dessert, that's this two-ingredient wonder. Victoria Spencer, Martha Stewart, 21 Apr. 2026 At 84, his distinctively sweet tenor — which earned him separate inductions to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with The Hollies and Crosby, Stills & Nash — remains sublime. Ben Crandell, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2026 Less than three minutes later, with Los Blancos all at sea, Luis Díaz struck a sublime effort – slightly deflected off Madrid defender Éder Militão – into the far corner of the net to give Bayern the lead on aggregate. Ben Church, CNN Money, 16 Apr. 2026 The 15,000-square-foot Patina Wellness floor is a haven for intentional health-tech sessions (think cryo and hyperbaric oxygen therapies) alongside sublime spa treatments. Travel + Leisure Editors, Travel + Leisure, 15 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sublime
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sublime
Adjective
  • His victory at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in a Ferrari 499P Hypercar marked a new peak in his astonishing recovery from a life-changing rally crash in 2011.
    Luke Smith, New York Times, 6 May 2026
  • The nomination is really a testament to the remarkable artists who brought the play to life—our astonishing director, Kenny Leon, our extraordinary ensemble of actors, our brilliant designers, and the tireless crew, along with everyone at MTC.
    Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 5 May 2026
Adjective
  • The staircase leads up to the portego, an enormous salon on the noble floor decorated with 18th-century paintings by Andrea Urbani and a large set of windows overlooking the Grand Canal.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 May 2026
  • But the latest news is a reminder that even the noblest-sounding proposals can have severe unintended consequences.
    Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 1 May 2026
Adjective
  • There is great teaching going on, the principal is wonderful.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Claire has been an advocate for courageous stories, an expert at complicated logistics and a wonderful partner to teams across the entire news division.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • After Marcus’s ground ball, everybody took great at-bats.
    Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Cherry blossoms great guests at the front foyer.
    Kathryn Palmer, USA Today, 29 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The entire complement of ingredients and cooking apparatuses to prepare the full menu occupies a mere 6 square feet—absolutely amazing.
    George Motz, Southern Living, 6 May 2026
  • The princess has done an amazing job at activating people's minds about the value and importance of this.
    Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 6 May 2026
Adjective
  • That could mean more high-density housing in several city neighborhoods, including the College Area, Hillcrest, North Park, City Heights, University Heights, Normal Heights, Rolando, Talmadge and downtown.
    David Garrick, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 May 2026
  • In the meantime, tensions remain high off the Iranian coast after the two sides exchanged fire May 7.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 9 May 2026
Adjective
  • Impressively, 94% of the property’s waste avoids landfill— miraculous for a hotel of this size—with it either being recycled, donated, or made use of in the hotel grounds.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 May 2026
  • But Orlando City scored the final four goals of the match to stun Inter Miami, clinching a miraculous 4-3 comeback victory on Saturday night at Nu Stadium.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 3 May 2026
Adjective
  • But the Ballances were more than gallant warriors – in fact, a life-size oil painting of Marti’s great-grandfather Charles Ballance’s wife and children – including her grandfather Willis as a 3-year-old – hangs in a place of honor at the Illinois State Museum in Springfield.
    Denise Crosby, Chicago Tribune, 17 Apr. 2026
  • And Texas made a gallant comeback to tie the game at 77-77 when Pope coolly sank three consecutive free throws after getting fouled behind the arc with 3.8 seconds remaining.
    Kirk Bohls, Houston Chronicle, 8 Mar. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sublime.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sublime. Accessed 11 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sublime

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster