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 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 Both works, with aptly tangy orchestrations, got splendid performances, with particularly fine solos from principals Alexander Kerr (violin), Gregory Raden (clarinet) and James Romeo (piccolo). Scott Cantrell, Dallas Morning News, 27 Mar. 2026 The cherry blossoms are opening & putting on a splendid spring spectacle. Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Everyone’s soft gazes soon hardened as the magnificent baby with so many rolls and love handles proved to be all unsightly flab.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026
  • However, Antalya’s resort-style atmosphere, magnificent beaches, and calmer surroundings help patients recover as if on holiday.
    K.H. Koehler, USA Today, 28 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • There is great teaching going on, the principal is wonderful.
    Fort Worth Star-Telegram, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 2026
  • Claire has been an advocate for courageous stories, an expert at complicated logistics and a wonderful partner to teams across the entire news division.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Some of the most beautiful nights of my life have been spent under the stars watching a meteor shower, comet or simply a dazzling Milky Way.
    Ernie Cowan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
  • Pro baseball scouts have taken notice of his dazzling ability, with many in attendance behind home plate with radar guns in hand for each of his starts.
    Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Fascism captivated people by absorbing them in fantasy worlds, combining a nostalgic past with a glorious future, and giving them theater every day of their lives.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 27 Apr. 2026
  • With glorious small town production design by Suzie Davies, and superb visual effects, animation, and puppetry creating the sheep, this fine family film looks every bit as colorful and idyllic as Babe, its distant cousin.
    Pete Hammond, Deadline, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Soft white sand, clear waters and excellent surf draw beachgoers to this vast beach.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 30 Apr. 2026
  • This makes buffalo grass an excellent choice for naturally controlling soil erosion.
    Lee Wallender, The Spruce, 30 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The mother-daughter duo both wore white ensembles, with Kourtney adding a pop of silver with her coat and Penelope going for luminous gold loafers.
    Diane J. Cho, PEOPLE, 27 Apr. 2026
  • Their luminous glow, ranging from the classic creamy white to delicate pinks and mysterious blacks, adds a touch of understated luxury to any ensemble.
    Nicole Letts, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Vertical’s lavish Saudi-shot epic Desert Warrior opened to $472k on 1,010 screens.
    Jill Goldsmith, Deadline, 26 Apr. 2026
  • The offense came up with timely hits early, Garrett Crochet was back to being Garrett Crochet and in the top of the ninth, the Red Sox erupted in epic fashion, scoring 10 runs to turn what was already a blowout into an absolute laugher.
    Mac Cerullo, Hartford Courant, 25 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • That dynamic reflected what’s become the new world order for the Chiefs, whose superb 2022 draft class was highlighted by McDuffie.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 24 Apr. 2026
  • The superb dry martini includes a splash of chamomile while La Violetera pays homage to Madrid’s traditional violet candies.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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