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resplendent
/rɪˈsplɛndənt/
brilliantly shining
The palace looked resplendent under the golden sunset.
The palace appeared magnificently bright and impressive in the golden light of the setting sun.
literary
Attractive and impressive through being richly colorful or sumptuous.
Her resplendent gown sparkled with diamonds.
Her stunning dress, adorned with diamonds, shone brilliantly.
The garden was resplendent with flowers in full bloom.
The garden was vibrant and full of life, with flowers blooming magnificently.
Often used to describe visual beauty, especially in formal or poetic contexts.
formal
Shining brightly; gleaming.
The resplendent sunrise over the mountains was breathtaking.
The sunrise over the mountains was dazzling and full of radiant light.
Can describe natural phenomena like sunlight or celestial objects.
Collocations
resplendent inused to describe someone or something looking impressive in a particular outfit or settingresplendent withused to describe something richly adorned or filled with something beautiful
Antonyms
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Visual Imagery
Use 'resplendent' when describing something so visually stunning that it seems to glow. It works best with colors, lights, or textures that catch the eye.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
Do not use 'resplendent' for everyday objects. Reserve it for things that are exceptionally beautiful or impressive, like a royal robe or a sunset over the ocean.
Word Origin
From Latin 'resplendens', present participle of 'resplendere' (to shine back), from 're-' (back) + 'splendere' (to shine). The word entered English in the 17th century, initially in a literal sense, later acquiring figurative meanings.
Usage Notes
Primarily used in written or formal spoken English to convey a sense of grandeur or visual splendor. Avoid overusing in casual conversation; reserve for descriptions where vivid imagery is desired.
Word Breakdown
re-
back or intensifying
prefix-splend-
shine
root-ent
forming an adjective
suffixEnglish Dictionary