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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective splendid contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of splendid are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When can glorious be used instead of splendid?

The synonyms glorious and splendid are sometimes interchangeable, but glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

Where would gorgeous be a reasonable alternative to splendid?

The meanings of gorgeous and splendid largely overlap; however, gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

In what contexts can resplendent take the place of splendid?

The words resplendent and splendid can be used in similar contexts, but resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When would sublime be a good substitute for splendid?

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

a vision of sublime beauty

When is superb a more appropriate choice than splendid?

The words superb and splendid are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

Examples 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 splendid In recent years, the parent company of Dewar’s has made a concerted effort to showcase the splendid malts being crafted here by the award-winning hands of Stephanie Macleod. Brad Japhe, Forbes, 15 Dec. 2024 The Colegio's expansive interior courtyard doubles as a dreamily quiet bar filled with potted plants, including two splendid palms from Sicily, making an idyllic, rainforest-like setting for a summer aperitivo. Tony Perrottet, Travel + Leisure, 14 Dec. 2024 And there, in that space between her chair and the bird hat, that’s where The Thought lived: a splendid ether, where love and gratitude resonated. Murr Brewster, The Christian Science Monitor, 12 Dec. 2024 Horowitz was rescued by a librarian with the splendid name of Virginia Wolfe Bartlett. Tad Friend, The New Yorker, 21 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for splendid 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Unfortunately, mid-rehearsal, their mother, Rose (an absolutely magnificent McDonald), comes thundering onto the stage, usurping Jocko’s leadership and sucking up all of the air into the room.
    Aramide Tinubu, Variety, 20 Dec. 2024
  • Pearce, in a magnificent performance, plays him as a kind of citadel—towering yet human-scaled, his immaculate dress and coiffure barely mussed by the occasional burst of temper or spasm of ego.
    Justin Chang, The New Yorker, 20 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Timothée Chalamet does excellent work striking Dylan’s balance of unworldliness and humanity.
    Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 25 Dec. 2024
  • The fight for the new Commanders stadium comes as the team is having an excellent year on the field, with a 10-5 record and appearing on track to have their first playoff appearance since 2020.
    Jack Birle, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 25 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Stroll through dazzling displays, shop at the holiday market, and catch holiday movies, fiestas and special events.
    Brandi D. Addison, Austin American-Statesman, 17 Dec. 2024
  • From marveling at the cherry blossom trees in bloom to soaking in the dazzling lights of Tokyo Tower, the family seemingly made sure to take in as many sights as possible.
    Anna Lazarus Caplan, People.com, 17 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • As a bonus, as though anyone needed another reason to want to visit this city, viewers get an absolute blast of a tour of Tokyo’s public toilets and their glorious designs.
    Charlie Hobbs, Condé Nast Traveler, 19 Dec. 2024
  • Yet, during two glorious years, a plethora of fascinating albums were unleashed on the world.
    Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 18 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Beats Solo Buds Wireless Earbuds Shoppers praise these Beats buds for their wonderful sound quality, easy connectivity, and long battery life.
    Shalwah Evans, People.com, 28 Dec. 2024
  • Nonetheless, 2024 was chocked full of wonderful watches that meet the basic criteria of quiet luxury: understated, mellow, traditional, and classy.
    Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 28 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Through her travels, she's been able to experience the northern lights, a rare luminous glow seen around the magnetic poles of the northern and southern hemispheres.
    Una Gísladóttir, People.com, 29 Dec. 2024
  • Most important question first: How did your hair stay so luminous on the island for 23 days?
    Dalton Ross, EW.com, 12 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Rookie quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked seven times in the Bears’ 6-3 loss to Seattle, extending his single-season franchise record and the team’s latest epic losing streak.
    Jon Greenberg, The Athletic, 29 Dec. 2024
  • The musician, 29, made a surprise cameo during Beyoncé’s epic Christmas Day halftime show at the Texans-Ravens game at NRG Stadium in Houston.
    Toria Sheffield, People.com, 29 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The writing, pacing, and production values are top-notch, and the cast is terrific across the board.
    Ars Technica, Ars Technica, 24 Dec. 2024
  • Springsteen’s energy level was off the charts and his vocals were terrific.
    Jim Harrington, The Mercury News, 23 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near splendid

Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 2 Jan. 2025.

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