Paradise: Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Last Updated on
November 17, 2025

1. Paradise (noun): A perfect place or state of happiness, free from suffering and troubles.
2. Paradise (noun): A place of great beauty, luxury, or pleasure, often compared to an ideal setting.
3. Paradise (noun): A religious or spiritual concept of an eternal, blissful afterlife, often associated with heaven.
4. Paradise (noun): An environment where conditions are highly favorable for a particular activity or group.

The word "paradise" carries connotations of perfection, joy, and utopia, whether describing a physical location, a spiritual realm, or an ideal state of existence. It is frequently used in religious, literary, and everyday contexts. Let's explore the various meanings, synonyms, pronunciation, and cultural significance of "paradise."

"Paradise" Definition: What Does "Paradise" Mean?

The word "paradise" has multiple meanings, each evoking a sense of beauty, peace, or happiness. Below are its key definitions.

Definition of "Paradise": A Perfect Place

"Paradise" is often used to describe an idyllic, trouble-free location where everything is perfect. It can refer to a real or imagined place where peace and happiness reign.

Definition of "Paradise": A Place of Luxury and Pleasure

The term is frequently applied to places known for their natural beauty, luxury, or relaxation, such as tropical islands, luxurious resorts, or beautiful gardens.

Definition of "Paradise": A Spiritual or Religious Concept

Many religions use "paradise" to describe the ultimate reward in the afterlife—a place of eternal joy and peace, often synonymous with heaven.

Definition of "Paradise": A Favorable Environment

In a broader sense, "paradise" can refer to an ideal setting for a specific activity, such as "a paradise for surfers" or "a food lover's paradise."

Parts of Speech

The word "paradise" functions as a noun and does not commonly appear in other forms. It is used to describe locations, conditions, or experiences that evoke a sense of bliss or perfection. While it can be metaphorical or literal, "paradise" consistently conveys an idea of ultimate happiness.

How to Pronounce "Paradise"?

Paradise is pronounced "PAIR-uh-dise," with the emphasis on the first syllable, where "PAIR" rhymes with "care," followed by a quick, unstressed "uh" sound, and ending with "dise" that rhymes with "rice." The middle syllable is reduced, allowing the word to flow smoothly from the stressed first syllable to the final syllable with its long "i" sound. To practice, say "pair" with clear emphasis, then add "uh-dise" with the final "s" having a "z" so

Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈpær.ə.daɪs/ 

Synonyms of "Paradise": Other Ways to Say "Paradise"

Synonyms for "paradise" vary depending on the meaning. Below are some common alternatives:

  • Heaven
  • Utopia
  • Bliss
  • Eden
  • Shangri-La
  • Haven
  • Oasis
  • Promised Land
  • Sanctuary
  • Euphoria

Antonyms of "Paradise": Other Ways to Say "Paradise"

The opposite of "paradise" typically describes places or states of suffering, chaos, or imperfection. Here are some antonyms:

  • Hell
  • Misery
  • Chaos
  • Dystopia
  • Nightmare
  • Purgatory
  • Wasteland
  • Torment
  • Horror
  • Agony

Examples of "Paradise" in a Sentence

Here are ten examples demonstrating different uses of "paradise":

1. The island was a tropical paradise with crystal-clear waters and lush palm trees.
2. Many religions describe the afterlife as an eternal paradise.
3. The resort offered a luxurious escape that felt like paradise.
4. His backyard garden was his personal paradise.
5. For food lovers, the city’s vibrant markets were a culinary paradise.
6. After months of stress, the peaceful countryside felt like a welcome paradise.
7. The ancient myth spoke of a hidden paradise untouched by time.
8. The national park is a true paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
9. The warm, sunny beaches of Hawaii are often called a surfer’s paradise.
10. The music festival created a temporary paradise of joy and celebration.

Frequency of Use

The word "paradise" is frequently used in both everyday speech and literature. It appears in religious texts, poetry, music, travel descriptions, and discussions about ideal places or experiences. Its widespread use reflects its strong emotional and aspirational significance.

Variants of "Paradise"

While "paradise" does not have many formal variants, related words and expressions convey similar meanings:

1. Paradisiacal: Adjective form meaning "resembling paradise."
2. Paradisiac: A less common adjective meaning "of or relating to paradise."
3. Paradisaical: Another variation of "paradisiacal," used in some poetic or literary contexts.

Related Terms to "Paradise"

Here are terms commonly associated with "paradise":

1. Heaven
2. Bliss
3. Euphoria
4. Eden
5. Shangri-La
6. Nirvana
7. Utopia
8. Haven
9. Oasis
10. Promised Land

Etymology: History and Origins of "Paradise"

“Paradise” entered English in the late 12th century from Old French “paradis,” which derived from Latin “paradisus.” That Latin term came from the Greek “parádeisos,” borrowed from an Old Persian word meaning “walled enclosure” or “garden.” Ancient Persians used it for royal parks before the term took on spiritual meaning in Jewish and Christian traditions. By medieval times, “paradise” clearly denoted the biblical Garden of Eden and later any blissful realm.

Derivatives and Compounds of "Paradise"

Here are derivatives and compounds related to "paradise":

1. Paradise lost: A famous term from John Milton’s epic poem, referring to the fall of man.
2. Paradise regained: The idea of restoring or finding paradise again, also from Milton.
3. Paradise-like: Descriptive term meaning "resembling paradise."

Common Misspellings of "Paradise"

Misspellings of "paradise" are uncommon but can include:

1. Paridise
2. Paradize
3. Pardise

10 Idioms Similar to "Paradise"

Here are idioms that convey similar meanings to "paradise":

1. Heaven on Earth
2. A land of milk and honey
3. A dream come true
4. Piece of heaven
5. Cloud nine
6. Blissful retreat
7. A hidden gem
8. A picture-perfect place
9. Garden of Eden
10. A utopian dream

10 Common Questions About "Paradise"

1. What does "paradise" mean?

"Paradise" refers to a perfect place, a state of happiness, or a heavenly afterlife.

2. Is "paradise" the same as "heaven"?

In religious contexts, "paradise" is often synonymous with heaven, but it can also mean any place of great beauty or happiness.

3. What are some real-life places called "paradise"?

Many tropical destinations, such as the Maldives and Bora Bora, are often described as "paradise."

4. Is "paradise" always a physical place?

No, "paradise" can also describe an emotional state of peace and happiness.

5. Can "paradise" be used figuratively?

Yes, people often use "paradise" metaphorically to describe places or situations that bring joy, such as "a book lover’s paradise" or "a food paradise."

6. What is the opposite of "paradise"?

The opposite of "paradise" is often "hell" in religious contexts, but other words like "dystopia," "nightmare," or "wasteland" can also serve as antonyms.

7. What does "Paradise Lost" mean?

"Paradise Lost" is the title of a famous epic poem by John Milton, referring to the fall of Adam and Eve. The phrase is also used generally to mean losing a once-perfect place or state of happiness.

8. Are there different types of "paradise" in mythology?

Yes, different cultures have their own versions of paradise, such as the Greek Elysian Fields, Norse Valhalla, and the Islamic Jannah.

9. What does "earthly paradise" mean?

An "earthly paradise" refers to a real-world location that feels like heaven, such as a breathtaking island, a luxurious resort, or a place of great natural beauty.

10. Can "paradise" be temporary?

Yes, "paradise" can describe a fleeting moment of happiness, such as "a weekend in paradise" or "a paradise of childhood memories."

Conclusion

The word "paradise" represents the ultimate state of joy, beauty, and perfection. Whether used to describe a spiritual realm, a vacation destination, or an ideal experience, it conveys a universal aspiration for happiness. Understanding "paradise" enriches discussions about human desires, dreams, and spiritual beliefs.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2025 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier