resplendent

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resplendent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resplendent are glorious, gorgeous, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When might glorious be a better fit than resplendent?

Although the words glorious and resplendent have much in common, glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When can gorgeous be used instead of resplendent?

The words gorgeous and resplendent can be used in similar contexts, but gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is splendid a more appropriate choice than resplendent?

The synonyms splendid and resplendent are sometimes interchangeable, but splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When would sublime be a good substitute for resplendent?

In some situations, the words sublime and resplendent are roughly equivalent. However, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When could superb be used to replace resplendent?

While in some cases nearly identical to resplendent, 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 resplendent Precious Lee donned a resplendent Theophilio gown in a dark purple tone paired with a headpiece that was quite compelling. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 2 Feb. 2025 Considered a top attraction in Spain, the structure is resplendent with columns that fan out like tree branches, intentional use of skylights, and rainbows of stained glass windows on either side. Rebecca Deurlein, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025 Credit is due to the pop savvy Tesfaye has accrued over the years, and the crack team of songwriters and producers he’s assembled, for the more resplendent moments of Hurry Up Tomorrow. Maura Johnston, Rolling Stone, 4 Feb. 2025 Sure enough, at around 5.30 p.m., Lisa emerged, resplendent in a sweeping pink satin Louis Vuitton gown and Bvlgari jewels, and without so much as a single bead of sweat on her forehead. Liam Hess, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for resplendent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resplendent
Adjective
  • Sinise called the museum magnificent — and something love overdue to recognize American heroes.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Legendary head coach Rick Pitino has done a magnificent job coaching the Red Storm this campaign, as the team went 30-4 this season and is on a nine-game win streak heading into the NCAA tournament, most recently winning the Big East tournament championship over Creighton.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Mature males grow long, glorious, pendulous snoods.
    Alice Jones Webb, Outdoor Life, 21 Mar. 2025
  • This sparkling evening will culminate in a glorious one-night-only performance starring Broadway standout Ashley Blanchet (Frozen, Beautiful), Broadway veteran Sara Jean Ford (The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked), and Emmy nominee Angela Ingersoll (Get Happy, End of the Rainbow).
    Encinitas Advocate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Here are some of the most beautiful tulip festivals to catch across the globe as well as how tulips came to have cultural significance in each destination.
    Kaitlyn McInnis, Forbes, 23 Mar. 2025
  • Rylance carries a striking and beautiful complexity across the series.
    Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 23 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Zegler radiates light and beauty in Powell’s gorgeous reworking of the iconic blue and yellow gown that just about every 5-year-old girl in the Western world has dragged through the dirt.
    David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Gothenburg locals recognize this spot as a landmark in the city and a gorgeous structure designed by Swedish architect Victor von Gegerfelt in 1874.
    Brittany Leitner, StyleCaster, 19 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Held in the heart of Orlando, this elegant event celebrates resilience and hope, with all proceeds directly supporting vital services for survivors of trauma, violence, and abuse.
    Joe Rassel, The Orlando Sentinel, 26 Mar. 2025
  • The Montecito Outdoor Pillow Cover, in particular, brings in a jolt of color and texture in one elegant design.
    Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 26 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The procedure is designed to help patients enhance rather than change their natural appearance, maintaining or restoring their loveliest features.
    Hilary Tetenbaum, USA TODAY, 21 Mar. 2025
  • Molly’s such a lovely person, just a great spirit and game to do what needs to be done and have fun.
    Jessica Wang, EW.com, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Below, read my full review of the exquisite Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa.
    Meredith Lepore, Travel + Leisure, 29 Mar. 2025
  • In 1914, Jonathan’s great-grandfather built a thriving business in Iran, selling exquisite Persian rugs.
    Kyle J. Russell, USA Today, 28 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • The stunning knit is made from 100 percent organic cotton, boasting the most flattering, drapey fit that pairs well with anything from trousers to a pair of linen shorts.
    Merrell Readman, Travel + Leisure, 19 Mar. 2025
  • Injuries hurt Dallas Mavericks, but Max Christie is a bright spot At best, the Mavericks’ stunning trade – sending Luka Doncic to the Lakers for Anthony Davis, Max Christie and one first-round draft pick – receives an incomplete grade.
    Ramon Padilla, USA TODAY, 19 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resplendent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resplendent. Accessed 2 Apr. 2025.

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