scenic
Americanadjective
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of or relating to natural scenery.
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having pleasing or beautiful scenery.
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of or relating to the stage or to stage scenery.
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representing a scene, action, or the like.
noun
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a photograph, graphic representation, etc., depicting natural scenery.
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a scenic tour.
to arrange scenics in advance.
adjective
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of or relating to natural scenery
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having beautiful natural scenery
a scenic drive
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of or relating to the stage or stage scenery
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(in painting) representing a scene, such as a scene of action or a historical event
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of scenic
1615–25; < Latin scēnicus < Greek skēnikós theatrical. See scene, -ic
Explanation
Something scenic is lush and beautiful to look at, like a mountain range. A pretty sight can be called a beautiful scene, and you can refer to amazing, gorgeous sights as scenic. Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon are two of the most scenic landmarks in the world; that's why so many tourists go to see them. A drive through the country, with open fields, farm life, and mountain ranges is scenic. Scenic sights are natural. You need to get out of the city or suburbs to get a scenic view.
Vocabulary lists containing scenic
Words to Describe a Place
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In the Footsteps of Crazy Horse
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Words to Describe Places
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The Scenic Railway, one of the theme park's star attractions, has been out of action since a fault in 2024.
From BBC • Jan. 27, 2026
Dreamland Margate in Kent announced on Tuesday that the amusement park's Scenic Railway would "take well-earned retirement from operation as a ride".
From BBC • Jan. 27, 2026
Skiers in Jackson Hole can organize snowmobile and snow-coach day excursions with Scenic Safaris, starting at $450.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 23, 2026
Start your day with a short hike at the Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook, which offers a breathtaking view of the city.
From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2025
They bought a big picture book, Scenic Wonders of America, and talked about making a trip to the Grand Canyon.
From "Typical American" by Gish Jen
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
