Synonyms of elusive

elusive

adjective

ē-ˈlü-siv 

as in slippery

hard to find, capture, or isolate

the giant squid is one of the ocean's most elusive inhabitants

Synonyms & Similar Words

• slippery
• transient
• evasive
• fleeting
• temporary
• inaccessible
• passing
• fugitive
• ephemeral
• unavailable
• evanescent
• unobtainable
• transitory
• momentary
• unattainable
• untouchable
• shifty
• unreachable
• cagey
• short-lived
• inconvenient
• unapproachable
• impermanent

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• available
• convenient
• attainable
• obtainable
• accessible
• reachable
• approachable

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of elusive

Earlier, Khan had posted a public plea on Instagram about the dorm’s elusive toilet paper handles and Rae responded, later inviting her to join them to sing. — Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 28 Aug. 2026

Summary Disney's Infinity Vision, initially met with skepticism, aims to standardize cinema quality by certifying theaters with laser projection, a feature often elusive to moviegoers. — Benny Har-Even, Forbes.com, 28 Aug. 2026

The data will help scientists uncover new insights into planetary systems around other stars and map how matter is structured and distributed throughout the cosmos, offering fresh clues about the elusive nature of dark energy. — Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 26 Aug. 2026

Despite the show’s success, Dimoldenberg said some guests remain elusive. — Jake Kanter, Deadline, 25 Aug. 2026