Resplendent Meaning and Definition
Resplendent
Pronunciation
/ˈrɛsplɛndnt/
Part of Speech
Adjective
Definition
Shining brightly; radiant; showing great beauty or attractiveness.
Examples
- The peacock’s resplendent plumage caught everyone’s attention.
- She looked resplendent in her new red dress at the party.
Synonyms
- Radiant
- Bright
- Glowing
Antonyms
- Dull
- Faded
- Overgrown
Additional Information
A resplendent being is someone or something that is awe-inspiring in its beauty, grandeur, or achievement. The term is often used to describe people who have achieved greatness or have a lasting impact on society.
In English, the term has been used since the 15th century to describe things that shine brightly, such as stars, jewels, or feathers. In modern usage, it is often used to describe people, events, or ideas that have a profound impact.
Etymology
The word “resplendent” comes from the Latin “resplendens,” which means “shining brightly.” This Latin word is a combination of “re” meaning “again” and “splendere” meaning “to shine.” The term has undergone changes in spelling and meaning over the centuries, finally stabilizing as the adjective “resplendent” that we know today.
Usage Notes
The word “resplendent” should be used to describe something that shines brightly or radiates an aura of grandeur. It is often used to add emphasis to a description, highlighting the exceptional qualities of a person, place, or thing.
Cultural References
The term “resplendent” has been featured in many songs, literature, and art forms over the centuries. One notable example is the poem “The Resplendent Peacock” by the 17th-century English poet Edmund Waller.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
The term “resplendent” can be used in idiomatic expressions such as “looking resplendent in one’s new dress” or “the city’s resplendent skyline at night.”
Related Words or Phrases
- Resplendency
- Resplendent-like
- Luminous
Collocations
- Resplendent beauty
- Resplendent event
- Resplendent performance
Frequency of Use
The term “resplendent” is relatively uncommon in modern language, but it is still used to add emphasis and highlight exceptional qualities.
Common Misspellings
- Resplendant
- Resplendentient
- Resplendently