splendor

[splen-der] /ˈsplɛn dər/

noun

brilliant or gorgeous appearance, coloring, etc.; magnificence:

the splendor of the palace.

an instance or display of imposing pomp or grandeur:

the splendor of the coronation.

grandeur; glory; brilliant distinction:

the splendor of ancient Greek architecture.

great brightness; brilliant light or luster.

verb (used with object)

to make splendid by decorating lavishly; adorn.

verb (used without object)

to move or proceed with splendor, grandeur, or pomp.

Also, especially British, splendour.

Origin of splendor

Latin

1400-1450

1400-50; < Latin splendor, equivalent to splend(ēre) to shine + -or -or¹; replacing late Middle English splendure < Anglo-French < Latin, as above

Related forms

splendorous, splendrous

[splen-druh s] /ˈsplɛn drəs/ (Show IPA), adjective

outsplendor, verb (used with object)

unsplendorous, adjective

unsplendorously, adverb

Can be confused

splendid, splendorous.

Synonyms

1. show, dash. 3. fame, eminence, renown, celebrity. 4. dazzle, refulgence.

Antonyms

1. squalor.

Word Origin and History for splendored

mid-15c., from Middle French esplendour, from Latin splendor "brilliance," from splendere "be bright, shine" (see splendid).

What Is the Difference Between Discreet and Discrete?
Learn the correct uses of these two commonly confused homophones.
What Character Was Removed from the Alphabet?
What mistaken pronunciation gave this character its name?
Apostrophes 101
This small mark has two primary uses: to signify possession or omitted letters.
How Do I Get a Word into the Dictionary?
People invent new words all the time, but which ones actually make it?