resplendent
Meaning: Dazzlingly beautiful or impressive; shining brilliantly with colour, light, or splendour.
Resplendent is a word of visual impact, suggesting something so bright or beautiful that it commands attention. It is typically used of ceremonial dress, architecture, natural scenery, or anything that radiates splendour. The word carries a slightly archaic or elevated tone, making it a favourite in feature writing and literary prose. 'Resplendent in' is a common construction — 'resplendent in full ceremonial uniform' — suggesting that the person is adorned or clothed in something magnificent.
Examples
- The Lord Mayor arrived resplendent in scarlet robes and the ceremonial chain of office. 市长大人身着猩红长袍、佩戴礼仪链章,光彩夺目地到场。El alcalde llegó resplandeciente con su toga escarlata y la cadena ceremonial del cargo.市長は深紅のローブと儀礼用のチェーンを身にまとい、光り輝く姿で到着した。시장은 진홍색 예복과 의전용 체인을 두르고 찬란한 모습으로 도착했다.
- The gardens were resplendent in the late-afternoon light, every border ablaze with dahlias and asters. 在午后的阳光下,花园光彩照人,每一片花坛都被大丽花和紫苑点燃。Los jardines estaban resplandecientes bajo la luz de la tarde, con cada parterre encendido de dalias y ásteres.午後の光の中、庭園は輝きに満ちていた。すべての花壇がダリアやアスターで燃えるようだった。오후 늦은 햇살 속에서 정원은 찬란히 빛나고 있었고, 모든 화단이 달리아와 아스터로 불타듯 물들어 있었다.
- The newly restored ceiling of the chapel was resplendent with gilt and lapis lazuli. 教堂新修复的天花板镶满金箔和青金石,金碧辉煌。El techo recién restaurado de la capilla resplandecía con pan de oro y lapislázuli.修復されたばかりの礼拝堂の天井は、金箔とラピスラズリで絢爛と輝いていた。새로 복원된 예배당 천장은 금박과 청금석으로 찬란히 빛나고 있었다.
Pronunciation
Usage Guide
Context: literary, journalism, general
Tone: appreciative
Origin & History
From Latin resplendentem (shining brightly), from resplendere (to shine brightly), from re- (intensifier) + splendere (to shine). Entered English in the late 15th century.
Cultural Context
Era: Modern
Generation: All ages
Social background: Universal
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