Definition of capaciousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective capacious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of capacious are ample, commodious, and spacious. While all these words mean "larger in extent or capacity than the average," capacious stresses the ability to hold, contain, or retain more than the average.

a capacious suitcase

When could ample be used to replace capacious?

In some situations, the words ample and capacious are roughly equivalent. However, ample implies having a greater size, expanse, or amount than that deemed adequate.

ample closet space

When is it sensible to use commodious instead of capacious?

The meanings of commodious and capacious largely overlap; however, commodious stresses roominess and comfortableness.

a commodious and airy penthouse apartment

When is spacious a more appropriate choice than capacious?

The synonyms spacious and capacious are sometimes interchangeable, but spacious implies great length and breadth.

a spacious front lawn

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 capacious Yet my overall impressions of the exhibition—as a public forum of address, redress, and dialogue in which critical questions of public memory, regional identity, ideologies of nationalism, and the capacious field of site-specific sculpture can, if not should be borne out—are decidedly more mixed. Horace D. Ballard, Artforum, 22 Apr. 2026 This is all in the first three paragraphs, and the breakdowns—a capacious category that, for Lemann, seems to encompass everything from rages to amiable fugues—do not let up. Brandy Jensen, New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2026 Soft, adjustable lighting, outdoor rain showers with peepholes framing the scenery, incredibly comfy poolside daybeds, super-crisp sheets, open-plan bathrooms with capacious closets—everything works, but nothing feels forced or superfluous. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Mar. 2026 Meanwhile, her longtime producer, John Parrish, weaves a wicker basket of folk rock that, despite its apparent simplicity, feels—maybe for the first time—capacious enough to hold all of Harding’s contradictions. Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 23 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • The main floor includes a stately foyer, grand living room and a spacious formal dining room illuminated by two chandeliers, ideal for holidays and large gatherings.
    David Caraccio, Sacbee.com, 30 May 2026
  • The retailer is brimming with chic, travel-ready finds that make packing for warm-weather getaways feel effortless and stylish, from breezy linen pants and figure-flattering sundresses to comfortable sandals and even spacious suitcases, all up to 70 percent off.
    Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • The study found California has some of the highest upward mobility in terms of income, meaning there’s ample opportunity for workers to move up a tax bracket or two thanks to the jobs offered in the state.
    Jake Angelo, Fortune, 27 May 2026
  • Give ample space to large vehicles - Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 27 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Capacious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capacious. Accessed 3 Jun. 2026.

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