splenditude
nounEtymology From splendid + -itude.
1
Rare The quality of being splendid.
- All this “magnificent idea,” the splenditude, the majesty of this is derived from the Bible.1850, [Hugh] M‘Neile, Special Report. The Rev. Dr. M‘Neile’s Speech on the Papal Aggression. Delivered at Exeter Hall, on Tuesday, December 17th, 1850., London: C. Westerton, […], page 5:
- General Washington, in all the brightness of his fame, and all the splenditude of his popularity invested, besides, with the dignity of the Presidential office, when he came to the Senate, by appointment, to consult respecting a treaty, was, indeed, received by them standing uncovered, as in the present case, but even he was not attended and introduced as La Fayette has been, by a committee of the most venerable members of the Senate.1886 January 13, “[Old People.] [National Intelligencer, December 10, 1824.]”, in The Wilmington Journal, volume XVIII, number 41, Washington, O., page 7, column 1:
4 more examples
- Now persons who are not clasified among those whom we have alluded to, have their own ideas on social subjects, and realise that billiard and card playing, loafing around pubs., patronising a play (when opportunity offers) with one’s “best girl,” and in the splenditude of Sunday attire, with a high collar and all the etceteras of masherdom, imagining that it is only a case of “look and conquer,” do not sum up the whole happiness in life.1895 December 18, “Amusements”, in The Macleay Argus, number 656, Kempsey, N.S.W., page [3]:
- It is practically a comic opera, possessing a splenditude of the daintiest and most catchy music of the season.1901 November 29, “[Amusements.] That Funny Girl from Paris.””, in Evening Report, volume XII, number 24, Lebanon, Pa., page 4, column 2:
- The Gleeful Splenditude / in three acts1904 November 28, The Daily Democrat, volume 1, number 54, Tulsa, Indian Territory, page [6]:
- It is a magnificent equipage, valued at more than $2,000. It was built in Concord, N. H., in 1875, but recently was renovated into its earlier condition of splenditude.1925 September 24, “Epochal Picture as Old West Rides in Review; Complete Awards Are Given for Greatest Poultry Show of West; […]”, in The Bulletin, volume XI, number 207, Pomona, Calif., section two, page one, column 1: