silky

adjective

ˈsil-kē 

silkier; silkiest

1

a(1)

: silken sense 1

(2)

: silken sense 2

b

: smooth or fluid in motion

silky dance moves

2

: having or covered with fine soft hairs, plumes, or scales

silkily

ˈsil-kə-lē 

adverb

silkiness

ˈsil-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of silky

• satin
• soft
• velvety

Examples of silky in a Sentence

The cat has a silky coat.

The material has a silky feel.

Recent Examples on the Web

Pair it with baggy jeans, pleated trousers, silky pants, or a denim maxi skirt, then finish the look with loafers, ballet flats, low-profile sneakers, or heeled booties. — Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 16 Aug. 2026

Boron nitride gives the formula its silky slip and creates a blurring effect, while avocado oil adds conditioning moisture so a matte doesn’t look like skin is parched. — Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 14 Aug. 2026

That’s the promise of Vuori’s silky-soft performance material, which is designed to naturally shed creases and also offers four-way stretch and moisture-wicking properties. — Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 14 Aug. 2026

For the silkiest texture, make sure to use tuna packed in olive oil—not water. — Rebecca Firkser, Bon Appetit Magazine, 13 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing silky

• silky terrier

Rhymes for silky

• milky

Kids Definition

silky

adjective

ˈsil-kē 

silkier; silkiest

1

: soft and smooth as silk

2

: having or covered with fine soft hairs, plumes, or scales

silkily

-kə-lē 

adverb

silkiness

-kē-nəs 

noun