“Fancy” does the job — but the right alternative does more. Here are 6 curated replacements, each with a definition, pronunciation, and an example of it working on the page.
Impressively attractive and elaborate in a way that dazzles the eye.
“She arrived at the gala resplendent in a gown threaded with gold.”
Best for: Works well in formal writing or vivid descriptions of grand appearances.
Elaborately decorated or adorned, often to a striking degree.
“The ornate chandeliers cast prismatic light across the marble floor.”
Best for: Ideal for architectural or visual descriptions where detail is the focus.
Splendidly rich, luxurious, and expensive-looking.
“The banquet table was laid with sumptuous silks and towering candelabras.”
Best for: Best used for sensory-rich scenes involving wealth, food, or decor.
Disreputably glamorous in a way that is seductive rather than refined.
“The bar had a louche elegance that made you feel both thrilled and suspicious.”
Best for: Great for morally ambiguous glamour — nightlife, noir fiction, fashion writing.
Elaborately ornamented with a golden, glittering quality.
“The cathedral's aureate interior left visitors blinking in stunned reverence.”
Best for: Rare and poetic; suits high literary or historical prose about opulent spaces.
Dazzlingly showy and radiant in appearance or style.
“He stepped out in a fulgent ensemble that silenced the entire room.”
Best for: Archaic and striking; use sparingly for maximum effect in literary fiction.
Wordsmith finds six curated alternatives for any word — free to try.
Try Wordsmith Free