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 Owls, bats and dragons drawn from Chinese mythology seem suspended inside transparent spheres, while cherub-like children run in circles. Anthony Demarco, Forbes.com, 22 July 2026 The Blazers, however, are not being transparent about their plans, two city governing bodies say. Jason Quick, New York Times, 21 July 2026 Revolut is hoping to soon bring its Ultra Card, which arrives encased in a transparent picture frame, to the United States. Alexandra Tremayne-Pengelly, The Atlantic, 21 July 2026 How tax relief company pricing works When comparing tax relief companies, pricing is often one of the most important and often least transparent factors. Adam Palasciano, USA Today, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • 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
  • Teigen shared several photos from the trip on Instagram, including one picture of Legend holding their two oldest kids, Luna and Miles, in the crystal blue pool.
    Joyann Jeffrey, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026
Adjective
  • European football returns to Wrexham this week with the size of the task facing the hosts clear on their Women’s Champions League debut.
    Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 21 July 2026
  • The calendar is clear now for another global event that the world will be talking about.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes.com, 21 July 2026
Adjective
  • The aspiring model was blooming in florals in the sculptural look, which featured a strapless bubble top paired with a sheer floor-length skirt, both of which were embroidered with purple and blue floral designs.
    Lara Walsh, InStyle, 18 July 2026
  • Yet, in the last two years, this sentiment of sheer doom has slowly and steadily begun to give way to a tentative yet very much present hope.
    Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • Essentially the marker version of eyeliner, liquid liner in felt-tip pen form offers a firm applicator that helps create clean lines.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 24 July 2026
  • Researchers are studying new liquid hydrocarbon chemistries that could improve fuel economy, reduce harmful aromatics, improve local air quality near airports, and limit contrail formation.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • The original idea was that the skin on her face was supposed to be translucent.
    Jeff Spry, Space.com, 18 July 2026
  • Their translucent jelly materials and signature Coach detailing are designed to make every outfit more interesting, all without sacrificing comfort (or all the contents of your wallet).
    Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • These may be restored heritage buildings in European capitals, villa collections overlooking crystalline waters, or—notably in 2025 and 2026—luxury lodges set in deserts, forests, and mountains.
    Laura Dannen Redman, Robb Report, 23 July 2026
  • That’s a smile piece, too, although Ono looks all business holding a crystalline hammer on the catalog cover photo.
    Classical Music Critic, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 25 Jul. 2026.

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