SPLENDID Synonyms: 313 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

Q: 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

splendid

adjective

ˈsplen-dəd

Definition of splendid

as in magnificent

large and impressive in size, grandeur, extent, or conception a splendid mansion in the Georgian style

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in wonderful

of the very best kind the restaurant's chef can always be relied upon to prepare a splendid dinner

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in dazzling

giving off or reflecting much light a splendid diamond that must have been worth a king's ransom

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 this splendid and very hot outfit, completed with spindly heeled sandals, Allie reluctantly toddles off into the night to join her glimmering, mini-skirted sisters. — Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 5 Aug. 2026 Budapest has marvelous music and museums, and plenty to see and do, and this is a splendid—and central—place to stay to start exploring. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026 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 See All Example Sentences for splendid

Recent Examples of Synonyms for splendid

Adjective

Originally intended for Florence Cathedral’s roof, the statue proved too heavy to hoist and too magnificent to place so high.

— Alicja Zelazko, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 Sep. 2026
The front of the enormous building faces the magnificent Place Vendôme.

— David Denby, New Yorker, 31 Aug. 2026

Definition of magnificent

Adjective

The coast on this part of Tuscany is a little wild, but wonderful for swimming, and guests have access to the boat for excursions to nearby islands and morning swims off secret coves.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Sep. 2026
Gloria lived a full, wonderful life filled with friends and great conversations and worthy causes.

— Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Sep. 2026

Definition of wonderful

Adjective

Williams and Alcaraz, who were both returning from injuries, wowed fans with dazzling rallies and impassioned play in an opening-round win before they were knocked out in the quarterfinals.

— Ashley Mowreader, NBC news, 29 Aug. 2026
Two New York City icons shone a dazzling pink last night in honor of another icon, the great Dolly Parton, who died yesterday following a brief battle with cancer.

— Greg Evans, Deadline, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of dazzling

Adjective

Tracing the length of one of these wild, winding promontories is the glorious, 46-mile Queen Charlotte Track, says Helen Pickles in The Times.

— The Week UK, TheWeek, 30 Aug. 2026
His particular favorites are Yeung’s Green Zebra tomatoes, the Brandywines, and the glorious red-gold Pineapples.

— Anne Ewbank, Sacbee.com, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of glorious

Adjective

To celebrate this milestone anniversary, Armani Beauty updated the formula for mature skin, infusing it with skincare ingredients that help to keep complexions luminous and plump during wear.

— Beth Sobol, Flow Space, 26 Aug. 2026
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

Definition of luminous

Adjective

For San Francisco, a comeback of epic proportions — the club was down 11-5 entering the fourth inning — was for naught.

— Johnny Flores Jr, New York Times, 2 Sep. 2026
Polyphonic and epic, the novel delves into the characters’ quest for authenticity, artistic freedom, and survival in the wake of tragedy.

— Jasmine Vojdani, Vulture, 1 Sep. 2026

Definition of epic

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splendid

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“Splendid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/splendid. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of splendid

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