1
as in dazzling
giving off or reflecting much light
a brilliant chandelier graces the hotel lobby
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in clever
having or showing quickness of mind
a brilliant boy who left for college at the age of 16
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in prominent
likely to attract attention
a brilliant example of government waste
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in gem
a usually valuable stone cut and polished for ornament
the diamond cutter set out an array of brilliants to show the various ways the diamond could be cut
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of brilliant
Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 May 2025
These three are, to me, among the most exemplary in New York, serving as brilliant finishes to any meal—or, as summer really kicks into swing, as mini-meals unto themselves, eaten on their own, at the bar.
—Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 25 May 2025
Evason started Fleury in Game 2 against Dallas in the 2023 playoffs after Gustavsson’s brilliant performance in a double OT win in Game 1.
—Michael Russo, New York Times, 17 May 2025
Golfers don’t require night vision goggles or glow in the dark golf balls because the entire course is illuminated by more than 78 brilliant LED lights.
—Candace Oehler, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for brilliant
Adjective
That includes brilliant limited series like Netflix's Toxic Town and Adolescence, fantasy epics like Prime Video's The Wheel of Time Season 3, and spectacular superhero animations like Disney+'s Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man.
—Griff Griffin, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 May 2025
These three are, to me, among the most exemplary in New York, serving as brilliant finishes to any meal—or, as summer really kicks into swing, as mini-meals unto themselves, eaten on their own, at the bar.
—Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 25 May 2025
Evason started Fleury in Game 2 against Dallas in the 2023 playoffs after Gustavsson’s brilliant performance in a double OT win in Game 1.
—Michael Russo, New York Times, 17 May 2025
Golfers don’t require night vision goggles or glow in the dark golf balls because the entire course is illuminated by more than 78 brilliant LED lights.
—Candace Oehler, Forbes.com, 17 May 2025
See All Example Sentences for brilliant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for brilliant
Adjective
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The results give a dazzling, simultaneous impression of serenity and velocity—half zen garden, half hyperspeed blur.—
Julian Lucas,
New Yorker,
29 May 2025
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The event will feature a lineup of live entertainment, including performances by The Betties, the Orlando Gay Chorus, and the dazzling Kissimmee Queens.—
Joe Rassel,
The Orlando Sentinel,
28 May 2025
Adjective
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The 76 gasoline brand, after all, evokes the patriotism of 1776 — a clever marketing ploy.—
Sammy Roth,
Los Angeles Times,
29 May 2025
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Charlie Davis Season: 46 Placed: 2nd If Q was the hurricane blowing through Survivor 46, Davis was a source of calm geniality at the center, constantly quoting Taylor Swift songs while obscuring his careful, clever gameplay.—
Ben Rosenstock,
Time,
29 May 2025
Adjective
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This news dovetails with previous events, such as Trump welcoming the prominent antisemites Nick Fuentes and Kanye West to his home for dinner.—
Jelani Cobb,
New Yorker,
25 May 2025
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The cooked agave notes are more prominent on the palate, accompanied by citrus and tropical fruits, a touch of anise/licorice, and a mild pepperiness.—
Joseph V Micallef,
Forbes.com,
24 May 2025
Noun
-
Here are The Athletic’s pick of Wirtz alternatives, from his fellow high-fee buys to hidden gems.—
Conor O'Neill,
New York Times,
2 June 2025
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Globally recognized as one of the most important global spirits competitions, the IWSC has been uncovering gems for over 50 years.—
Hudson Lindenberger,
Forbes.com,
2 June 2025
Adjective
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What finally elevated my perspective was a luminous Book that perfectly alchemized my thoughts, beliefs, with human nature.—
Angie Martoccio,
Rolling Stone,
13 May 2025
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But for dryer skin types, this step can be skipped so the Glow Mist can easily lock everything in while keeping the skin luminous, fresh and protected throughout the day.—
Jessica Ourisman,
Forbes.com,
13 May 2025
Adjective
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Designing the Future of AI Artificial intelligence is powering a new generation of tools that combine logic with intelligent action.—
William Jones,
USA Today,
28 May 2025
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By freeing physicians from the need to be behind their computers during appointments, these intelligent assistants enable a more personal and engaging interaction with patients.—
Rakhee Langer,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2025
Adjective
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Last year, there were multiple reports and videos of noticeable early exits at various Trump events.—
Martha McHardy,
MSNBC Newsweek,
31 May 2025
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Even after shaking the comforter, there was no noticeable movement of the down fill to the edge of the pockets.—
Rebecca Jones,
Southern Living,
30 May 2025
Noun
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The jewel of the home, a heated pool for swimming laps in the mornings, is located at the center of the inner courtyard, while the rooftop terrace offers an accommodating space for dining and lounging while taking in the city views.—
Shannon Sharpe,
Architectural Digest,
28 May 2025
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This past weekend featured the crown jewel of the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) annual slate, the 2025 Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open.—
Todd Boss,
Forbes.com,
28 May 2025
Cite this Entry
“Brilliant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/brilliant. Accessed 5 Jun. 2025.
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