SUPERB Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'superb' contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of superb are glorious , gorgeous , resplendent , splendid , and sublime . While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree. // her singing was superb

Q: When is it sensible to use 'glorious' instead of 'superb'?

While in some cases nearly identical to superb , glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction. // a glorious sunset

Q: When might 'gorgeous' be a better fit than 'superb'?

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

Q: When would 'resplendent' be a good substitute for 'superb'?

In some situations, the words resplendent and superb are roughly equivalent. However, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor. // resplendent in her jewelry

Q: When is 'splendid' a more appropriate choice than 'superb'?

While the synonyms splendid and superb are close in meaning, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary. // the wedding was a splendid occasion

Q: When can 'sublime' be used instead of 'superb'?

The synonyms sublime and superb are sometimes interchangeable, but sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension. // a vision of sublime beauty

superb

adjective

su̇-ˈpərb

Definition of superb

as in excellent

of the very best kind the restaurant's baker makes a superb chocolate cake

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How does the adjective superb contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of superb are glorious, gorgeous, resplendent, splendid, and sublime. While all these words mean "extraordinarily or transcendently impressive," superb suggests an excellence reaching the highest conceivable degree.

her singing was superb

When is it sensible to use glorious instead of superb?

While in some cases nearly identical to superb, glorious suggests radiance that heightens beauty or distinction.

a glorious sunset

When might gorgeous be a better fit than superb?

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

a gorgeous red dress

When would resplendent be a good substitute for superb?

In some situations, the words resplendent and superb are roughly equivalent. However, resplendent suggests a glowing or blazing splendor.

resplendent in her jewelry

When is splendid a more appropriate choice than superb?

While the synonyms splendid and superb are close in meaning, splendid implies outshining the usual or customary.

the wedding was a splendid occasion

When can sublime be used instead of superb?

The synonyms sublime and superb are sometimes interchangeable, but sublime implies an exaltation or elevation almost beyond human comprehension.

a vision of sublime beauty

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 superb The 5-foot-10, 165-pound wide receiver also has a superb sense of timing. — Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 17 Oct. 2026 These four superb films approach that reality from very different vantage points. — David Faris, TheWeek, 16 Oct. 2026 Binoculars will give you a superb view at dusk, particularly along the terminator — the boundary between lunar day and night. — Jamie Carter, Space.com, 16 Oct. 2026 The truth is, Stuttgart has had great success with pretty much every kind of configuration; the midship supercars are just the least common (the Boxster/Cayman twins are superb, but not quite super). — Caleb Jacobs, The Drive, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for superb

Recent Examples of Synonyms for superb

Adjective

His 28-yard touchdown reception from Sam Darnold late in the second quarter beat Delane, who had excellent position.

— Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 26 Oct. 2026
The biggest key for the Brewers in this game is to see if their bullpen can keep their excellent pitching alive.

— OutKick, FOXNews.com, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of excellent

Adjective

The special effects team has done terrific work re-creating his body down to the creature’s fringed lashes.

— Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 22 Oct. 2026
Even detractors say star Tom Rhys Harries is terrific in his major leading role debut, and praise the film’s use of practical effects.

— James Hibberd, HollywoodReporter, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

L3Harris claims its design can deliver greater range and speed than existing systems.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 Oct. 2026
Tarantino revealed the most personally meaningful piece of casting in a film filled with great performances — including supporting turns by multiple actors (Austin Butler, Mikey Madison, Sydney Sweeney) who have blown up in the seven years since.

— Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 24 Oct. 2026

Definition of great

Adjective

Montserrat Collection Residence Set within a 1930s French-style building, this lovely home features contemporary Argentine art and mid-century design.

— Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 26 Oct. 2026
But Mi-ok is game to be interviewed, and her words spring to life in wistfully lovely flashbacks.

— Justin Chang, New Yorker, 23 Oct. 2026

Definition of lovely

Adjective

Additionally, Kay offers a fabulous shipping policy, excellent financing options, and some old-school retail perks that are seemingly extinct everywhere else.

— Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 21 Oct. 2026
On most summer weekends, East Potomac Park was crowded with working-class families, many including someone employed in federal civil service, engaged in various forms of recreation at this fabulous park that sits on the Potomac.

— Letters to the Editor, Washington Post, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of fabulous

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“Superb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/superb. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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