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 Within the neighborhood’s tight quasi-official borders, there’s the Morgan Library & Museum, splendid but small, and comparatively little culture beyond that. — Christopher Bonanos, Curbed, 2 Sep. 2026 In life, and in the novel, the German conquerors in their splendid uniforms make debonair remarks, as the French cultural and social figures who frequent the bar—collaborators—are thrilled to remain close to power. — David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026 The options are almost endless for getting out into the splendid scenery. — Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2026 Billy Wilder’s splendid film noir sees an insurance agent (Fred MacMurray) conspire with an alluring housewife (Barbara Stanwyck) to murder her husband for a hefty payout. — Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 21 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Outperformance for the non-magnificent S & P 493 would come at key point for the stock market, which has chugged along fine on the headline level thanks to the megacaps but has seen its breadth weaken considerably beneath the surface.
    — Sarah Min, CNBC, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Waugh was a magnificent writer, and his prose has a rare gravity and balance.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • There is a wonderful museum in the park that interactively showcases the landscape and cultural history of the Chacabuco Valley as well as this part of the region's ecological loss and path to recovery.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Howell and Sloyan are quite wonderful in these moments, and Howell is exceptional throughout.
    — Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 6 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Food and drink Upon my arrival, I was wooed by the dazzling signature welcome cocktail made with gin, pineapple, herbal liqueur, and tamarind jamu.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 Oct. 2026
  • The hardware is gorgeous, the display is dazzling, and the performance is great for productivity tasks.
    — Kimberly Gedeon, PC Magazine, 30 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • With a sky-skimming infinity pool, the longest in Palma, that brings the Balearic sea right up to the feet of the Balinese sunbeds, El Llorenç’s rooftop is glorious.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Somewhere in the heavens, these beloved instruments have formed a glorious orchestra—a cosmic symphony where every lost voice is restored.
    — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • There’s an excellent Anantara Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center onsite, but the highlight of the property is its 60-foot-long oceanfront infinity pool, which overlooks the entire expanse of Stone Town beach.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026
  • Mikey Madison is excellent as a whistleblower driven by love, not spite.
    — Jordan Moreau, Variety, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Pearlescent particles provide an instant soft-focus glow, giving skin a brighter, more luminous look.
    — Sheryl George, Allure, 5 Oct. 2026
  • Mariel Barrera kept the makeup soft and luminous save for a siren smoky that added some of that SJP spirit, while Gina Eppolito handled the blush ballerina pink nails.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 2 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • So the fact that Zoe Kazan’s East of Eden is his first job since a notable 2024 that included Luca Guadagnino’s Challengers and Jeff Nichols’ The Bikeriders suggests the epic family drama holds particular meaning for him.
    — Brian Davids, HollywoodReporter, 5 Oct. 2026
  • The tour kicks off April 6 at Nashville’s Pinnacle and includes some epic stops at New York’s Radio City Music Hall and Los Angeles’ Greek Theatre.
    — Alicia Urrea, Billboard, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Fans of modernist architecture will find much else to enjoy, too – not least in Ibirapuera Park, with its striking array of mid-century buildings by Oscar Niemeyer, including the pavilion that now houses the superb Museu Afro Brasil.
    — The Week UK, TheWeek, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Whatever the case might be, Kentucky Boy is a really superb bourbon.
    — Jonah Flicker, Robb Report, 4 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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