Definition of capaciousnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective capacious differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of capacious are ample, commodious, and spacious. While all these words mean "larger in extent or capacity than the average," capacious stresses the ability to hold, contain, or retain more than the average.

a capacious suitcase

When could ample be used to replace capacious?

In some situations, the words ample and capacious are roughly equivalent. However, ample implies having a greater size, expanse, or amount than that deemed adequate.

ample closet space

When is it sensible to use commodious instead of capacious?

The meanings of commodious and capacious largely overlap; however, commodious stresses roominess and comfortableness.

a commodious and airy penthouse apartment

When is spacious a more appropriate choice than capacious?

The synonyms spacious and capacious are sometimes interchangeable, but spacious implies great length and breadth.

a spacious front lawn

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 capacious The three-cell battery is capacious enough for lengthy work sessions, and supports Fast Charge to get it from empty to a half a tank in 45 minutes. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 7 Sep. 2026 This is Erykah’s best full-length since 2008’s capacious New Amerykah Part One (4th World War), showcasing the Alchemist’s strongest productions since his 2022 collabo with Roc Marciano, The Elephant Man’s Bones. — Will Dukes, Rolling Stone, 1 Sep. 2026 The books’ capacious geography felt like a girlish form of manifest destiny. — Literary Hub, 26 Aug. 2026 On the bag front, the pendulum has officially swung from mini bags to ludicrously capacious purses as the It-Girl accessory to have. — Essence Wiley, InStyle, 15 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • Bathrooms are incredibly spacious, with indoor and outdoor showers.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
  • Inside, the kitchen was spacious and new, with lots of counter space and an island, and the bathrooms were remodeled.
    — Shannon Sims, New York Times, 1 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • There is access to miles of amazing hiking trails, gin bottle-blue glacial rivers and lakes, and ample opportunity to spot the again-thriving native wildlife.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • But critics point to turmoil already seen at CBS under Skydance ownership — and aren’t convinced this new body will move the needle much, because Ellison is set to have ample oversight over appointments.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 6 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Capacious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capacious. Accessed 9 Oct. 2026.

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