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sleek

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sleek differ from other similar words?

The words glossy and slick are common synonyms of sleek. While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning.

a sleek racehorse

In what contexts can glossy take the place of sleek?

The words glossy and sleek are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, glossy suggests a highly reflective surface.

photographs having a glossy finish

When might slick be a better fit than sleek?

Although the words slick and sleek have much in common, slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface.

slipped and fell on the slick floor

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of sleek
Adjective
The former Pussycat Doll wore her dark tresses in a sleek updo, while her makeup consisted of rosy blush and winged eyeliner. Hannah Malach, WWD, 4 Nov. 2024 KitchenAid has also ventured into the air fryer oven corner of the kitchen gadget space with this sleek countertop model that can bake, broil, reheat, roast, toast, and more. Tiffany Hopkins, Bon Appétit, 4 Nov. 2024
Verb
From comfortable walking shoes and workout dresses to sleek luggage and weekender bags, there’s something for everyone. Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 2 Aug. 2024 Out of our hundreds of recs from January, Refinery29 readers carted only the best — from life-changing planners to awe-inspiring olive oils, sleek AirTag keychains to ooey-gooey Levain cookies. Alexandra Polk, refinery29.com, 7 Feb. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sleek 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sleek
Adjective
  • Stander believes the auction car was fitted with a polished Vortech supercharger by the previous owner about eight years ago.
    Howard Walker, Robb Report, 5 Nov. 2024
  • Bright raspberry and bing cherry notes on the palate give way to a satiny texture and elegant polished structure.
    Katie Kelly Bell, Forbes, 4 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Known for simple glam looks, Grainge wore her hair partied down the middle and slicked back with largely nude makeup.
    Mikelle Street, WWD, 2 Nov. 2024
  • Or, if there’s time, makeup artist Vincent Oquendo encourages clients to use Dr. Barbara Sturm’s Facial Scrub for an allover flake-free glow before slicking the skin with Georgia Louise’s Vital Finishing Serum for an extra dose of moisture.
    Lauren Valenti, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Related Articles For the special occasion, Winfrey made a statement in a white, glossy suit that shimmered under the lights.
    Julia Teti, WWD, 5 Nov. 2024
  • If the dish is glazed (completely smooth and glossy), it can be put in the dishwasher on a gentle cycle.
    Sandra S. Soria, Better Homes & Gardens, 2 Nov. 2024
Verb
  • Zoom in: Both Thune and Cornyn have had rocky relationships with former President Trump but have worked hard to smooth them over.
    Stef W. Kight, Axios, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Notably, both Thune and Cornyn have had rocky relationships with Trump but have worked hard to smooth them over.
    Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 1 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near sleek

Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on sleek

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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