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Definitions

brilliant

[bril-yuhnt] / ˈbrɪl yənt /
ADJECTIVE
shining, glowing in appearance
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bright dazzling flashy intense luminous radiant scintillating sparkling vivid
WEAK
ablaze clinquant coruscating effulgent fulgent gleaming glittering glossy incandescent lambent lucent lustrous refulgent resplendent showy
Antonyms
STRONGEST
cloudy dark dim dull gloomy obscure
WEAK
dulled normal stupid typical unaware unintelligent
ADJECTIVE
famous, outstanding
Synonyms
STRONGEST
distinguished excellent exceptional glorious magnificent splendid superb
WEAK
celebrated eminent illustrious prominent
Antonyms
STRONGEST
bad common inferior insignificant ordinary poor regular second-rate unnoteworthy usual
WEAK
dark dull dulled normal stupid typical unaware unintelligent
ADJECTIVE
very intelligent
Synonyms
STRONGEST
accomplished astute bright gifted ingenious inventive sharp smart talented
WEAK
Einstein acute brainy clever discerning eggheaded expert genius intellectual knowing knowledgeable masterly penetrating profound quick quick-witted whip whiz kid
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dull ignorant inept slow stupid unintelligent unstylish
WEAK
dark dulled normal typical unaware

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.

During one orbit, Anders captured Earth's brilliant blue hue standing out against the vast darkness of space and accentuated by the desolate, grey lunar horizon in the foreground.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

“From a margin basis, it’s probably not the most brilliant thing in the world,” Haywood said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 6, 2026

“With no expense spared, this property boasts luxury quality construction, with grand scale and volume throughout, flooded with fresh air and brilliant Southern California sunlight,” the description stated.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

"It was in the foundry for three to six months; they suggested rotating it and I thought what a brilliant idea."

From BBC • Apr. 5, 2026

"I thought we did a brilliant job sneaking away after school."

From "Jeremy Thatcher, Dragon Hatcher" by Bruce Coville