Definition of transparentnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective transparent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of transparent are clear, limpid, and translucent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

When is it sensible to use clear instead of transparent?

The words clear and transparent can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When can limpid be used instead of transparent?

The words limpid and transparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Where would translucent be a reasonable alternative to transparent?

The meanings of translucent and transparent largely overlap; however, translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

Example 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 transparent To keep the work that is already underway moving and make sure city government remains transparent, accountable and responsible to you. — Orlando Sentinel Staff, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 Nov. 2026 Elections in this state, like most states, are free and fair and transparent and run by real pros. — Arkansas Online, 31 Oct. 2026 Guests walked through a forest to a giant transparent structure that housed the reception. — Shelby Wax, Vogue, 30 Oct. 2026 Let Customers Choose Between Clear Options Set boundaries by making the tradeoff transparent. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • O’Connor’s face filled the screen, her crystal-blue eyes piercing me in my own living room.
    — Jayson Greene, Pitchfork, 25 July 2026
  • Beside the dessert sat a crystal coupe overflowing with Caramelized Shallot Dip from Every Leaf, Every Stem.
    — Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • Nowhere has that shift been clearer than in the outlet’s X feed since the United States went to war with Iran in February.
    — Max Tani, semafor.com, 2 Nov. 2026
  • The resounding answer is clearer to the couple than ever before.
    — Ron Farina, Hartford Courant, 1 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • The grand reveal of the MTPeak One-All managed to grab the spotlight with its looks, performance and sheer quality.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Even beyond lyrics, the sheer tone of a voice can communicate emotion so differently.
    — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 6 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Molecular testing can be done at the time of an initial biopsy, later using tissue from that same biopsy or another biopsy, or via a blood test called a liquid biopsy.
    — Petra Guglielmetti, Glamour, 6 Nov. 2026
  • However, instead of launching with separate tanks of liquid hydrogen and liquid oxygen, the satellite carries a reservoir of liquid water.
    — Stephen Clark, ArsTechnica, 6 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • As mentioned, this new skin trend takes its name from mochi, a traditional Japanese rice cake treat famous for its bouncy texture, plump appearance, and smooth, slightly translucent surface.
    — Jeanne Ballion, Vogue, 24 Oct. 2026
  • The upper is constructed of a gray mesh with matching suede overlays and translucent TPU side panels.
    — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The crystalline alignment allows magnetic fields to pass through the metal with low energy loss, which is crucial for handling large amounts of electricity.
    — Jasmine Garland, The Conversation, 4 Nov. 2026
  • Borges writes stories that are an idea, an absolute crystalline unforgettable thought.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 27 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 8 Nov. 2026.

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