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

Dishes like silky linguini with clams and sweet cherry tomatoes served with fresh burrata still linger in memory. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026

Flavorless but crisp-enough crust, silky smooth pumpkin filling. — Alex Beggs, Bon Appetit Magazine, 21 Oct. 2026

How hair oil works on strands Oils smooth the hair’s outer surface so strands reflect more light and feel silkier, which is why dry, dull or frizzy hair often responds first. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 21 Oct. 2026

For years, our standard TENCEL™ Lyocell fiber has been celebrated for its fluidity and silky-smooth touch. — Footwear News, 21 Oct. 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