Definition of copiousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective copious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of copious are abundant, ample, and plentiful. While all these words mean "more than sufficient without being excessive," copious stresses largeness of supply rather than fullness or richness.

copious examples of bureaucratic waste

How do abundant and plentiful relate to one another, in the sense of copious?

Abundant suggests an even greater or richer supply than does plentiful.

streams abundant with fish

When can ample be used instead of copious?

While in some cases nearly identical to copious, ample implies a generous sufficiency to satisfy a particular requirement.

ample food to last the winter

When is plentiful a more appropriate choice than copious?

The words plentiful and copious are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, plentiful implies a great or rich supply.

peaches are plentiful this summer

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 copious For almost a decade, Chinese automakers have had to hand over copious amounts of data on their customers’ driving habits to their government. Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 1 May 2026 Inspired by a carousel, La Rotonde brasserie is decorated with horse sculptures and copious amount of gold, from the walls to the warm lighting. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Apr. 2026 That role includes leading by example, through copious notetaking and attention to detail during practices or when learning plays. Sean Campbell, Los Angeles Times, 11 Apr. 2026 Then there’s Meghan Markle’s post-palace wardrobe, a parade of tailored trousers, elevated linens, and copious amounts of cashmere. Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for copious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for copious
Adjective
  • While airlines squeezed in more seats and reduced legroom, premium cabins got all the investment, with new business suites and lavish first-class enclaves.
    Chris Dong, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
  • Chinese President Xi Jinping welcomes Trump with a lavish ceremony, then warns him about Taiwan.
    Elizabeth Robinson, NBC news, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Mahan proposed incentivizing electric vehicle owners to charge midday, when solar energy is abundant, and plug into the grid at night, a move Hilton dismissed as impractical.
    Ben Paviour, Sacbee.com, 15 May 2026
  • Today, information is abundant, and real insight is scarce.
    Dan Cavanaugh, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • When juggling jobs, children, and endless tasks, ample rest rarely fits into a mother's schedule.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 13 May 2026
  • Three tall windows on each side let in ample light from the north and south.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 May 2026
Adjective
  • Ocean-front suites and plentiful alcohol Prosecutors asked Stapp about several high-dollar union conferences and meetings.
    Judy L. Thomas, Kansas City Star, 15 May 2026
  • England might not be known for plentiful sunny days, but Cornwall—the rugged peninsula on the country's southwestern tip—is actually home some of the best beaches in Europe.
    Ali Pantony, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • The two highest-ranking Republicans in the state legislature called Wednesday for former New Britain mayor Erin Stewart to consider dropping out of the governor’s race over reported excessive spending on the city’s credit card.
    Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 14 May 2026
  • Parents Alexus Benavidez and Rauf Scott of Collin County filed a complaint this month against Kids ‘R’ Kids of Lawler Farm in Frisco, alleging their 3-year-old son was the victim of excessive physical force that included yanking, spanking and smacking the toddler.
    Lina Ruiz May 14, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Definitely don’t be overly profuse or attempt to be complicated in whatever your request is.
    Lance Eliot, Forbes.com, 10 Aug. 2025
  • The narratively profuse mystery game Lost Records: Bloom & Rage is like living in a Bikini Kill song followed by a Phoebe Bridgers ballad.
    Harold Goldberg, New York Times, 18 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • But in the realm of big business, the last week has been bountiful.
    Megan Poinski, Forbes.com, 18 May 2026
  • For Garden-Fresh Dinner Parties Tomato Dinnerware Set Tomatoes are the perfect summertime snack to share with friends and family, and this dish set showcases the bountiful harvest.
    Ella Field, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • Attended by nearly 17,000 people, the Bowl’s biggest Spanish-language comedy event also featured a special (and sensual) musical performance by Colombian reggaeton heartthrob Feid, as well as Mexican comedian Sofia Niño de Rivera, who opened the show with her own riotous act.
    Malina Saval, Los Angeles Times, 13 May 2026
  • In a riotous turn, Beverly played her role as Duncan’s fake date with inappropriate panache.
    Paula Mejía, The Atlantic, 3 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Copious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/copious. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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