Definition of effortlessnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective effortless contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of effortless are easy, facile, light, simple, and smooth. While all these words mean "not demanding effort or involving difficulty," effortless stresses the appearance of ease and usually implies the prior attainment of artistry or expertness.

moving with effortless grace

Where would easy be a reasonable alternative to effortless?

While in some cases nearly identical to effortless, easy is applicable either to persons or things imposing tasks or to activity required by such tasks.

an easy college course

How are the words facile and easy related as synonyms of effortless?

Facile often adds to easy the connotation of undue haste or shallowness.

facile answers to complex questions

When can light be used instead of effortless?

Although the words light and effortless have much in common, light stresses freedom from what is burdensome.

a light teaching load

In what contexts can simple take the place of effortless?

The words simple and effortless can be used in similar contexts, but simple stresses ease in understanding or dealing with because complication is absent.

a simple problem in arithmetic

When is it sensible to use smooth instead of effortless?

The meanings of smooth and effortless largely overlap; however, smooth stresses the absence or removal of all difficulties, hardships, or obstacles.

a smooth ride

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 effortless Sneakers are an effortless way to add visual interest—just look to Onitsuka Tiger’s Mexico 66 in silver, a favorite among multiple of our editors, for an eye-catching accent that feels perfectly primed for spring. Minty Mellon, Vogue, 29 Jan. 2026 On a scale of 1 to 10, with one being almost effortless and 10 being max effort, a zone 2 workout should feel like a level 3 or 4, Kennedy says. Jenny McCoy, SELF, 28 Jan. 2026 The effortless, off-kilter aesthetic informed Porte’s sartorial vision, playfully juxtaposing his sculptured garments with silhouettes reminiscent of the same era. Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 27 Jan. 2026 Color and effortless glamour fill this region’s wedding palette, from barefoot beach ceremonies to black-tie glamorous ballroom affairs. Anton Lucanus, Miami Herald, 27 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for effortless
Recent Examples of Synonyms for effortless
Adjective
  • After Iribarne’s free throw, Beckman couldn’t knock down a 3, and Aliso allowed an easy bucket with five seconds left, then didn’t worry about putting the ball in play again.
    Martin Henderson, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Cohen suggests incorporating accent pieces—pillows, objects, and art—done in more vibrant tones that are easy to edit or remove over time.
    R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The weekend celebration started on Friday with a roller skating party on the smooth arena floor followed by a full schedule on Saturday of performances by local artists, tours and refreshments.
    Doug Duran, Mercury News, 27 Jan. 2026
  • With the ability to charge a compatible phone wirelessly at 25W using the new Qi2 charging standard, the MagSafe-compatible Icemag 3 has a full-surface magnetic lock and provides smoother and steadier power flow.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In such a world, simple answers won’t do; only the courage to ask the hardest questions will push us forward.
    Daphne Koller, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Knox, who committed to wrestle at Rutgers University, and his dad were initially charged with simple assault for purposely/knowingly causing bodily injury after a brawl broke out at Collingswood High School on February.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The older one does Warners cartoon bits, really old-fashioned, cheap-ass funny vaudeville stuff.
    Lea Veloso, StyleCaster, 30 Jan. 2026
  • Amazon’s selection, however, renewed my faith in cheap-and-cheerful bottoms.
    Annie Blackman, InStyle, 30 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Effortless.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/effortless. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on effortless

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