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 Pan Yan The substance is integrated into a transparent, medium-sized insert designed to fit onto a garbage bin lid. — Maryna Holovnova, New Atlas, 19 Oct. 2026 Such responsibilities and characteristics demand careful and transparent elections that are in strict compliance with Florida law and associations’ own governing documents. — Gary M. Mars, Miami Herald, 19 Oct. 2026 The body was laid bare, via dramatic cutouts, lingerie, transparent and transluscent garments, to accentuate the form. — Rachael Akhidenor, Vogue, 19 Oct. 2026 The slip-on style features a wide, transparent PVC toe strap, an open almond-toe design and a curved vamp. — Karla Rodriguez, Footwear News, 19 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
  • Though 57% of voters say the Democratic Party does not have a clear vision for the future, Republicans hold no advantage in this category either, according to a CBS News poll released on Sunday.
    — Carter Schroppe, The Washington Examiner, 26 Oct. 2026
  • With no side holding a clear majority, a deadlock, a minority government, a unity government – or another election – are all plausible outcomes.
    — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Measure what got shipped, not how many hours a screen stayed unlocked or what the sheer activity is, which is based on keystrokes and mouse movements.
    — Adithyan RK, Forbes.com, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Lula overcame these obstacles with sheer people power, thanks to a 10 million-person-strong digital army organized over WhatsApp focused on getting his campaign message out.
    — Elizabeth Shackelford, Chicago Tribune, 30 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Together, these ingredients form a deep eutectic solvent, a liquid mixture whose components interact through forces such as hydrogen bonding and ion-dipole interactions.
    — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 31 Oct. 2026
  • The liquid sunscreen has an ultralight texture and a silky feel.
    — Iman Balagam, Vogue, 30 Oct. 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
  • Borges writes stories that are an idea, an absolute crystalline unforgettable thought.
    — The Week US, TheWeek, 27 Oct. 2026
  • Reality, for Doomed, hangs on the harmony of the spheres, a crystalline architecture with the power to dazzle—and, at times, to lull.
    — Ryan Meehan, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 1 Nov. 2026.

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