Synonyms of glorious

glorious

adjective

ˈglȯr-ē-əs 

as in magnificent

large and impressive in size, grandeur, extent, or conception

the advent of the printing press in the West ushered in a glorious new era of learning

Synonyms & Similar Words

• magnificent
• epic
• majestic
• imposing
• proud
• massive
• grand
• royal
• monumental
• impressive
• wonderful
• regal
• splendid
• imperial
• heroic
• colossal
• heroical
• marvellous
• noble
• gallant
• luxurious
• tremendous
• remarkable
• grandiose
• marvelous
• formidable
• operatic
• gorgeous
• lavish
• baronial
• awesome
• august
• Homeric
• extraordinary
• stately
• sublime
• superb
• cosmic
• stupendous
• terrific
• wondrous
• magnific
• extravagant
• monstrous
• heavenly
• prodigious
• cosmical
• divine
• awful
• striking
• sumptuous
• apocalyptic
• princely
• kingly
• inflated
• celestial
• sensational
• opulent
• redoubtable
• apocalyptical
• palatial
• overblown
• resplendent
• queenly
• pompous
• splendiferous
• lordly
• killer
• prepossessing
• palatine

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• humble
• modest
• unimpressive
• ordinary
• lowly
• common
• mediocre
• average
• unheroic
• unprepossessing
• sordid
• abject
• shabby
• unimposing
• mean
• meretricious
• trivial
• insignificant
• puny
• petty
• paltry
• trifling
• second-rate
• run-of-the-mill
• measly

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective glorious contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of glorious are gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When could gorgeous be used to replace glorious?

The words gorgeous and glorious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is it sensible to use resplendent instead of glorious?

The synonyms resplendent and glorious are sometimes interchangeable, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

Where would splendid be a reasonable alternative to glorious?

While in some cases nearly identical to glorious, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When might sublime be a better fit than glorious?

The meanings of sublime and glorious largely overlap; however, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When would superb be a good substitute for glorious?

While the synonyms superb and glorious are close in meaning, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of glorious

The couple will soon exclaim over the loss of several favorite spots devoured by the Eaton Fire — a breakfast joint here, a pizza spot there — but here is a favorite destination for bargain groceries, suddenly glorious in its mundanity. —Katie Kilkenny, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 Jan. 2025

Check into a $10,000 to $50,000 a night private villa on Fisher Island and enjoy the same glorious views of the Atlantic or Biscayne Bay that Oprah Winfrey, Julia Roberts and Dwyane Wade get. —Mark Gauert, Sun Sentinel, 30 Jan. 2025

These potato boats have four of the best foods all in one glorious appetizer: bacon, chicken, cheese, and potato—all drizzled with ranch. —Amanda Stanfield, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2025

Now is the perfect time to see the territory’s glorious—and vulnerable—icebergs. —Emily Matchar, Smithsonian Magazine, 27 Jan. 2025