resplendent

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective resplendent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of resplendent are glorious, gorgeous, splendid, sublime, and superb. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When might glorious be a better fit than resplendent?

Although the words glorious and resplendent have much in common, glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When can gorgeous be used instead of resplendent?

The words gorgeous and resplendent can be used in similar contexts, but gorgeous implies a rich splendor especially in display of color.

a gorgeous red dress

When is splendid a more appropriate choice than resplendent?

The synonyms splendid and resplendent are sometimes interchangeable, but splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When would sublime be a good substitute for resplendent?

In some situations, the words sublime and resplendent are roughly equivalent. However, sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

When could superb be used to replace resplendent?

While in some cases nearly identical to resplendent, 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 resplendent In the ruins of Rome’s opulent Domus Aurea palace, archaeologists have uncovered an array of ancient pigments used by artisans to paint the walls of the emperor Nero’s stately marble home with resplendent frescoes some 2,000 years ago. Eli Wizevich, Smithsonian Magazine, 4 Feb. 2025 Her resplendent fashion sense has become a hit at every awards show (even becoming a bit of a meme for her sky-high, stage-obscuring white head wrap at the 2023 Oscars). August Brown, Los Angeles Times, 12 Dec. 2024 This Michelin-key hotel also features three other resplendent pools decked out with cabanas, as well as a 40,000 wellness spa and fitness center that includes a SoulCycle studio. Shivani Vora, Architectural Digest, 30 Dec. 2024 The table, set in resplendent shades of green, provided the perfect case study of Aerin’s power to transform the act of hosting into an art form. Ian Malone, Vogue, 10 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for resplendent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resplendent
Adjective
  • In Cairo, the Sphinx, the Giza Pyramids and the magnificent Pyramid of Cheops beckon.
    Rona Berg, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
  • Playing for Team Sweden at the 4 Nations Face-Off, Karlsson was magnificent in all three of his appearances.
    Josh Yohe, The Athletic, 25 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The glorious roars, screams, chants, cheers and whistles of approval don’t stop.
    Funmi Fetto, Vogue, 25 Feb. 2025
  • And there’s a glorious selection of rental homes and condos situated on both the ocean and the harbor.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 22 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • While some critics find Brutalism’s heavy look and utilitarian use of materials like concrete, brick and glass harsh – even ugly – there is a beautiful intent behind them.
    Michael Allen, The Conversation, 27 Feb. 2025
  • Misconceptions are spreading almost as fast as the excitement for what is a really simple, beautiful event.
    Jamie Carter, Forbes, 27 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The Knicks manufacture gorgeous offense and just yielded two All-Star starters for the first time in five decades.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025
  • With gorgeous beaches, excellent cuisine, and top-notch healthcare at an affordable price point, Turkey is quickly emerging as a leader in the medical tourism industry.
    Ethan Stone, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • Grande’s elegant look this evening stayed true to the spirit of her red-carpet style this awards season.
    Christian Allaire, Vogue, 2 Mar. 2025
  • This elegant, spare picture doesn’t hammer away at its message.
    Stephanie Zacharek, TIME, 2 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Within its pages is a lovely story of the neverending struggle between security and new technology that provides a useful backdrop to current events: in particular, the Chinese hacking of the American telecommunications infrastructure.
    David G.W. Birch, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025
  • The set features a lovely pattern of yellow and teal flowers with deep sage green leaves and detailing around the edge.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2025
Adjective
  • The Timeless Brilliance environment showcased exquisite diamond jewels from the collection of heritage gem and jewelry dealer Ernst Färber, which was founded in Munich in 1692.
    Kyle Roderick, Forbes, 5 Mar. 2025
  • The Red Room establishes an impressive, grand introduction to the store, and is gracefully merchandised with footwear on exquisite circular onyx tables.
    David Moin, WWD, 3 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Another stunning look consisted of the award-winning actress Zoe Saldana who also wore a silver-toned frock.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 23 Feb. 2025
  • Even in winter, the stunning coastline of Southern Norway invites exploration.
    David Nikel, Forbes, 23 Feb. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Resplendent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resplendent. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

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