gorgeous

American  

[gawr-juhs] / ˈgɔr dʒəs /

adjective

1. splendid or sumptuous in appearance, coloring, etc.; magnificent.

   a gorgeous gown; a gorgeous sunset.

   Synonyms:

   resplendent, brilliant, grand, superb, rich

   Antonyms:

   plain, poor

2. Informal. extremely good, enjoyable, or pleasant.

   I had a gorgeous time.

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gorgeous British  

/ ˈɡɔːdʒəs /

adjective

1. strikingly beautiful or magnificent

   gorgeous array

   a gorgeous girl

2. informal extremely pleasing, fine, or good

   gorgeous weather

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Synonym Usage

See magnificent.

Other Word Forms

• gorgeousness
  noun
• gorgeously
  adverb

Etymology

Origin of gorgeous

First recorded in 1490–1500; earlier gorgeouse, from Old French gorgias “fashionable, elegant,” of uncertain origin, perhaps connected to gorge “throat”; see gorge

Explanation

Reach for the adjective gorgeous to describe jaw-droppingly beautiful, magnificent people or things. Good-looking is one thing. Beautiful is another. But reserve gorgeous for the kind of looks that take your breath away. Some synonyms include resplendent, dazzling, spectacular, and splendid. We know that the word comes from Old French gorgias, meaning "elegant," but beyond that it's hard to say for sure. It might have something to do with fancy necklaces adorning the throat — la gorge in French. If calling someone gorgeous isn't enough, pack some extra punch and say "drop-dead gorgeous" instead.

Related Words

• attractive
• bright
• brilliant
• colorful
• dazzling
• delightful
• elegant
• exquisite
• glorious
• good-looking
• handsome
• impressive
• lavish
• lovely
• luxurious
• opulent
• pleasing
• ravishing
• splendid
• stunning