splendor

noun

splen·​dor ˈsplen-dər 

1

a

: great brightness or luster : brilliancy

b

: magnificence, pomp

2

: something splendid

the splendors of the past

splendorous adjective

or less commonly splendrous

ˈsplen-d(ə-)rəs 

Synonyms

• augustness
• brilliance
• gloriousness
• glory
• gorgeousness
• grandeur
• grandness
• magnificence
• majesty
• nobility
• nobleness
• resplendence
• resplendency
• splendidness
• splendiferousness
• stateliness
• stupendousness
• sublimeness
• superbness

Examples of splendor in a Sentence

The palace had lost much of its original splendor.

the splendor of the ancient monument awed us into silence

Recent Examples on the Web

Scenic rides to Spring Lookout reveal breathtaking views of mainland St. Vincent, grounding visitors in nature’s splendor. —Melissa Noel, Essence, 15 Jan. 2025

Equipped with a team of expert adventurers that are well-versed in the natural splendor of Chile, this local company offers a diverse array of expeditions that span from heart-racing volcano summits to forays into some of the region’s most idyllic natural oases. —Jared Ranahan, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025

The splendor of the Angeles National Forest is a local respite. —Shawn Hubler, New York Times, 10 Jan. 2025

Her burst of laughter upon seeing me with Norm energized the room, kicking off an afternoon filled with easy conversation over lunch followed by a stroll through the splendor of Boston Common and the Public Gardens. —Charlotte Phillipp, People.com, 6 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English splendure, from Anglo-French splendur, from Latin splendor, from splendēre

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

splendor

noun

splen·​dor ˈsplen-dər 

1

: great brightness : brilliance

the splendor of the sun

2

: pomp sense 1, glory

the splendor of ancient Rome

3

: something splendid

the splendors of the past

splendorous adjective

also splendrous

ˈsplen-d(ə-)rəs