Definition of splendidnext
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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

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 splendid While a paved patio can be great for modern furnishings, and stone can feel rugged, a grassy patio is a splendid pick for the more traditionally inclined among us. Rachel Davies, Architectural Digest, 15 Apr. 2026 This slightly smaller preserve (368 acres) abounds with waterfalls, rugged trails, and splendid vistas at every turn. Anthony Fredericks, Travel + Leisure, 12 Apr. 2026 In its many guises, idolatry has survived, despite regular and often cataclysmic proof of its dangers, for centuries and many people will consider a much-larger-than-life golden statue of a president to be perfectly splendid. Culture Critic, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2026 Hall’s writing is splendid and inventive. The Know, Denver Post, 29 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • The magnificent luminosity of the orbs announced their arrival, their glow falling unfamiliar against windowpanes, which drew the people to the street.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 May 2026
  • To make the case, everyone who cares about the magnificent red-rock canyons of Grand Staircase-Escalante and Southern Utah needs to act now.
    Scott Braden, Denver Post, 19 May 2026
Adjective
  • The aesthetic is going to go a lot of different places across Season 8, too, including two episodes in the round and the finale, which Badner wouldn’t dare spoil but is proud of the wonderful collaboration between the production design, camera, and lighting teams.
    Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 19 May 2026
  • Shrubs, such as American filbert (Corylus americana), are a wonderful way to add interest to your landscape throughout multiple seasons.
    Madeline Buiano, Martha Stewart, 19 May 2026
Adjective
  • The Southern Hemisphere has its own polar lights known as the southern lights, or aurora australis, which create a dazzling display of their own.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 15 May 2026
  • Dreyer added an assist when the 19-year-old Soma scored his first career goal — a dazzling one — in his 12th appearance for a 3-0 advantage in the 54th minute.
    ABC News, ABC News, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • For fans of the Afghan Whigs, the first half of 2026 has been a glorious time.
    Steve Baltin, Los Angeles Times, 18 May 2026
  • You’re told what’s going to happen, but not exactly what or how, and that gives it a kind of glorious freshness.
    Laura Bradley, Vanity Fair, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • Christopher Sanchez has once again been excellent, and Jacob Misiorowski has often looked unhittable with over 14 strikeouts per nine innings.
    Ian Miller OutKick, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
  • The excellent, nonprofit gallery and incubator known as PlatteForum has moved around a bit over the years, and will reopen in the Art District on Santa Fe starting June 5.
    John Wenzel, Denver Post, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Ecstatic catharsis is her métier, and Animal Wisdom is luminous with it.
    Sara Holdren, Vulture, 20 May 2026
  • Included in the exhibition are Sea Idyll (1909), a luminous beach scene; Louis Comfort Tiffany (1911), a portrait of the famed American designer in his Long Island garden; and Señora de Sorolla in a Spanish Mantilla (1902), an intimate portrait of the artist’s wife.
    Daniel Cassady, ARTnews.com, 19 May 2026
Adjective
  • Welina Terrace, which is only open for dinner, feels a bit fancier; low-lit with live music and epic views of the bay.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2026
  • At its heart is the Conquest necklace, a masterpiece that feels as though it could have been uncovered at the end of an epic voyage.
    Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 17 May 2026
Adjective
  • Jared Harris is superb as Soviet nuclear scientist Valery Legasov, who helps convince apparatchik Boris Shcherbina (Stellan Skarsgard) that the situation is sufficiently grave that it can’t be covered up.
    David Faris, TheWeek, 14 May 2026
  • This is why your ability to get things done, especially by working with others or in conjunction with groups, is superb.
    Georgia Nicols, Denver Post, 14 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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