LINEAR Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

linear

adjective

ˈli-nē-ər

Definition of linear

as in direct

free from irregularities or digressions in course the bullets from early firearms were notorious for not following a strictly linear path through the air

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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 linear Tuesday’s bulletin was hosted by BBC journalist Ben Henley-Washford and featured a report on BBC Three’s demise as a linear television network. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 21 Oct. 2026 Western traditions of symmetry and notions of linear time are upended. — Carolina A. Miranda, Los Angeles Times, 20 Oct. 2026 There are many variations of silicones, but the two important categories used in beauty products are linear (like dimethicone) and cyclic (like cyclomethicone and cyclosiloxanes). — Tracy Middleton, Allure, 19 Oct. 2026 Detours and shortcuts in the brain The cells and synapses of the brain aren’t arranged in rigid, linear paths for each task and experience. — Sean McCabe, Hartford Courant, 18 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for linear

Recent Examples of Synonyms for linear

Adjective

The university introduced an aerospace engineering degree this fall, giving students a direct connection to emerging aviation systems.

— Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 21 Oct. 2026
There is no working alternative to Starlink, which has put a massive constellation of low-earth satellites into orbit, and no direct competitor comes close.

— Jennifer Jacobs, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of direct

Adjective

This was the second straight month that Japan's export growth slowed, after hitting a near four-year high in July.

— Lim Hui Jie, CNBC, 21 Oct. 2026
Despite the restrictions, Jung says Korea is an attractive option for straight couples who want to engage with a medical system that’s fast and efficient.

— Jessica Poitevien, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of straight

Adjective

The resulting songs are refreshingly straightforward, and self-aware about it.

— Samuel Hyland, Pitchfork, 19 Oct. 2026
Giving Americans $1,000 or $5,000 invested in a technology index is a straightforward idea; The source and use of the funds will likely be of great debate.

— Sarah Cannon, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2026

Definition of straightforward

Browse Nearby Words

lineaments

linear

linebred

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“Linear.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/linear. Accessed 24 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of linear

adjective

Example Sentences

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