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 BookTok’s preferences may skew toward familiar beats and blunt-force sensation, but in Harpman the hive mind has alighted on something more capacious and slippery. Katy Waldman, New Yorker, 3 Aug. 2026 Fresh orchids brighten up each space, including the capacious bathroom stocked with Molton Brown toiletries. Wendy Altschuler, Travel + Leisure, 2 Aug. 2026 Her public image was capacious enough that Rollerena could carry not only camp and sociability, but profound grief as well. Emilie Hardman, JSTOR Daily, 24 June 2026 Paré-Poupart’s hyperactive, genre-mixing writing suggests that writing about contemporary labor and its place in consumer societies may benefit from being associative and capacious. Lily Meyer, The Atlantic, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for capacious
Recent Examples of Synonyms for capacious
Adjective
  • Think baking dishes for holiday get-togethers, serveware for birthday celebrations, and even a new, more spacious dining table.
    Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 1 Sep. 2026
  • The multiple entertaining spaces include a large living room with a piano, a dining area, and a spacious kitchen with checkerboard floor tiling and French doors to the gardens.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Each lockable box has a hydraulic system engineered for smooth daily operation and a roomy interior that provides ample storage for your patio cushions, gardening gear, toys, or outdoor entertaining essentials.
    Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 1 Sep. 2026
  • There was ample evidence that football caused concussion and that concussion had serious consequences.
    Emily Harrison, STAT, 31 Aug. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Capacious.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/capacious. Accessed 4 Sep. 2026.

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