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

Shop more wrap dresses below, including a polka-dot mini, a silky maxi, and a spaghetti-strap midi that’s at its lowest price in more than 90 days on Amazon. — Better Homes & Gardens, 26 July 2026

Everyone needs a good pesto recipe, and this version—silky, aromatic, and perfectly balanced—is our favorite. — Martha Stewart, 25 July 2026

The Futurist Skin Tint Serum is the lighter, more everyday friendly-formula, with a silky, serumlike texture that feels virtually weightless on the skin. — Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 25 July 2026

Pair a striped tee with your silky slip skirt, finishing the look with vacation-ready accessories—a raffia tote, flip-flops, and shield sunglasses. — Alice Cary, Vogue, 24 July 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