silky

1 of 2

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

silkiness

2 of 2

noun

silk·​i·​ness -kēnə̇s 

-kin-

plural -es

: the quality or state of being silky

Synonyms of silky

Adjective

• satin
• soft
• velvety

Examples of silky in a Sentence

Adjective

The cat has a silky coat.

The material has a silky feel.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Several minutes in garlicky olive oil then transform them into silky ribbons that tangle easily with the pasta. — Carla Lalli Music, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Sep. 2026

To no surprise, celebrity MUA Tina Turnbow relied on Armani Beauty to create Russell’s glam, including the brand’s iconic skinlike foundation, silky concealer, and smoothing primer. — Anna Traver, InStyle, 21 Sep. 2026

Negative ion technology seals cuticles and boosts shine for a silky, frizz-free finish. — ABC News, 19 Sep. 2026

The silky mattes go on without streaking (like some other inexpensive shadows might) along lashlines, over lids, and through creases for so many possible looks and so many color options (there are nine versions of the palette). — Elizabeth Siegel, Allure, 17 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

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