COPIOUS Synonyms: 51 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

copious

adjective

ˈkō-pē-əs

Definition of copious next

as in lavish

pouring forth in great amounts a copious rush of words just poured out of the two friends who hadn't seen each other in years

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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 Fortunately, Send Help gloriously showcases Raimi’s love for twisted comedy, unhinged action and copious amounts of blood. —

David Canfield, HollywoodReporter, 26 Jan. 2026 My colleagues were more than gracious enough to take some time out of their day to taste-test copious amounts of chocolate. —

Nicole Hoey, Robb Report, 24 Jan. 2026 Taking copious notes during position meetings, with running backs coach Ron Gould estimating that Williams goes through a notebook every 2-3 weeks. —

Adam Grosbard, Oc Register, 23 Jan. 2026 The result, featuring a copious voice-over by Talankin, is an exemplary work of cinematic modernism, a reflexive film that turns its genesis into its subject and its moral essence. —

Richard Brody, New Yorker, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for copious

Recent Examples of Synonyms for copious

Adjective

The two whip up a lavish dip packed with cheese, greens and pickles, which add tang to cut through the indulgent creaminess.

— Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 Feb. 2026
Nichols said financial documents offered as evidence showed the GoFundMe donations were spent on things like lavish meals and travel, streaming services, car payments and rent.

— Jane Harper, Dallas Morning News, 7 Feb. 2026