Main Entry: ³level

Function: adjective

Date: 15th century

1 a : having no part higher than another : conforming to the curvature of the liquid parts of the earth's surface b : parallel with the plane of the horizon : horizontal
2 a : even or unvarying in height b : equal in advantage, progression, or standing c : proceeding monotonously or uneventfully d (1) : steady, unwavering <gave him a level look> (2) : calm, unexcited <spoke in level tones>
3 : reasonable, balanced <arrive at a justly proportional and level judgment on this affair — Sir Winston Churchill>
4 : distributed evenly <level stress>
5 : being a surface perpendicular to all lines of force in a field of force : equipotential
6 : suited to a particular rank or plane of ability or achievement <top-level thinking>
7 : of or relating to the spreading out of a cost or charge in even payments over a period of time

— lev·el·ly \ˈle-və(l)-lē\ adverb

— lev·el·ness \-vəl-nəs\ noun

— level best : very best

synonyms level, flat, plane, even, smooth mean having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities. level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon <the vast prairies are nearly level>. flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions <the work surface must be flat>. plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface <the plane sides of a crystal>. even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight <trim the hedge so it is even>. smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities <a smooth skating rink>.