Definition of splendid
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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 The last goaltender in Edmonton to deliver two solid years in a row was Cam Talbot, who was splendid in 2015-16 and 2016-17. Allan Mitchell, New York Times, 24 July 2026 The message to spend as much time as possible horizontal is a splendid idea. Jonathan Samuels, TheWeek, 17 July 2026 No worries, because Matt Damon does a splendid job putting his stamp on a legendary character. Brian Truitt, USA Today, 17 July 2026 Nicole Kidman, Kirsten Dunst, and Elle Fanning fill out a splendid ensemble. Brian Tallerico, Vulture, 16 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for splendid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid
Adjective
  • Shouts of awe echoed behind as the final shred of the solar disk created a magnificent Diamond ring flare effect on the trailing edge of the lunar disk.
    Anthony Wood, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026
  • But the offense was magnificent with him as the signal-caller, and his game-winning, as-the-buzzer-sounded 5-yard touchdown run in prime time pretty much cemented his spot on an active roster somewhere.
    Alex Zietlow, Charlotte Observer, 24 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Nature aside, Cape Town boasts a wonderful juxtaposition of old world architecture and contemporary design across its vibrant neighborhoods.
    Paul Jebara, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Aug. 2026
  • Both films had wonderful ensembles, ingenious writing and an unmistakable sense of occasion.
    Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 26 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There was dancing, drinks and dazzling artifacts at the de Young Museum Thursday night.
    Andrea Nakano, CBS News, 21 Aug. 2026
  • To promote quality tourism in exceptional destinations with a dazzling range of hotels.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 20 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • For years, Coventry had lived a charmed life in the top flight, pulling off a few dramatic escapes either side of a glorious FA Cup success in 1987.
    Oliver Kay, New York Times, 20 Aug. 2026
  • There's also a glorious opportunity for the crew to unleash their inner WALL-E by floating through space without a spaceship.
    Richard Edwards, Space.com, 20 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Fjord, Cristian Mungiu’s legal thriller starring podcast favorite Renate Reinsve and Sebastian Stan; Hope, an action film starring Squid Game breakout Hoyeon; and Gentle Monster, led by an excellent Léa Seydoux.
    Alex Jhamb Burns, Vogue, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Servite 0-1 (62) The Friars lost to an excellent Centennial of Corona team, 41-21, in Rick Garretson’s first game as Servite’s head coach.
    Steve Fryer, Oc Register, 24 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • At the same time, the drops have suspended pigments that melt into the skin rather than sitting on top of it, creating a more even skin tone with a natural, slightly luminous finish.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 24 Aug. 2026
  • White, meanwhile, instantly lightens an outfit to add a luminous, almost ethereal touch.
    Emma Bocchi, Glamour, 21 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • From a 2026 lens, extending Braun while kicking Watson’s can down the road looks like an epic blunder that could cost the Nuggets another title in the Joker’s prime.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Season three of Taylor Sheridan's epic CIA/military thriller is currently airing on Paramount+, and the fourth episode of the new season aired this past Sunday.
    David Hookstead OutKick, FOXNews.com, 25 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Head baker Lou Turner (formerly pastry chef at Obelix, a French bistro in the city’s River North) churns out superb pastries that invite obsession.
    The Bon Appétit Staff, Bon Appetit Magazine, 24 Aug. 2026
  • The winery is also known for superb musical performances that Paine gets through his relationship with a top tier entertainment manager.
    Pamela McLoughlin, Hartford Courant, 24 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 28 Aug. 2026.

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