even 1 of 3

Definition of evennext

even

2 of 3

adjective

1
as in exact
being neither more nor less than a certain amount, number, or extent the distance to town is an even mile

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4
as in steady
not varying energy demands do not stay even throughout the day but peak significantly during the afternoon hours

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

even

3 of 3

verb

1
as in to smooth
to make free from breaks, curves, or bumps even the filling before adding the top layer of the cake

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in to equate
to make equal in amount, degree, or status the contention that producing more arms will even us with the enemy and therefore make us more secure

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective even contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of even are flat, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight.

trim the hedge so it is even

When can flat be used instead of even?

The words flat and even are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

Where would level be a reasonable alternative to even?

In some situations, the words level and even are roughly equivalent. However, level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

When could plane be used to replace even?

While in some cases nearly identical to even, plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface.

the plane sides of a crystal

When is it sensible to use smooth instead of even?

Although the words smooth and even have much in common, smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

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 even
Adverb
The second problem is even worse. Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 14 May 2026 The Sun were still competing down the stretch, but even with the Aces’ starters off the floor for much of the final frame, the Sun got outscored 20-16. Emily Adams, Hartford Courant, 14 May 2026
Adjective
Ritu Panesar, founder and president of luxury travel company Travelopod, said her clients routinely spend between $30,000 and $50,000 per person on remote expedition itineraries, often booked months or even years in advance. Barbara Booth, CNBC, 9 May 2026 MacKinnon’s even-strength dominance helped the Colorado Avalanche win the Presidents’ Trophy this season. Corey Masisak, Denver Post, 8 May 2026
Verb
Donovan Mitchell tied an NBA playoff record with 39 points in the second half and the Cleveland Cavaliers evened their second-round series against the Detroit Pistons with a 112-103 victory Monday night. CBS News, 11 May 2026 None of it could be said after the Ducks’ 3-1 victory over the Vegas Golden Knights in Game 2 of their second-round Stanley Cup playoff series at T-Mobile Arena evened the best-of-seven series at one victory apiece. Andrew Knoll, Oc Register, 9 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for even
Recent Examples of Synonyms for even
Adverb
  • The core of Cunningham, Duren and Thompson will be what the Pistons almost certainly seek to build around during a pivotal offseason.
    Hunter Patterson, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • The most conspicuous symptom of this transition, certainly, was the contortion of the nation-state, and the resulting unravelling of political cultures built up over many decades.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 18 May 2026
Adverb
  • According to the brothers, the home — despite appearing quite elegant, with its portico, white balustrade, five bedrooms, carved fireplaces and a music room — has long been in decay and would cost millions of dollars to restore.
    Eric Adler May 12, Kansas City Star, 12 May 2026
  • Church-goers who aren't quite ready for lunch food will love this delicious brunch dish.
    Mary Shannon Wells, Southern Living, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Our food director Chris Morocco is spectacular at this exact category.
    Emma Laperruque, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 May 2026
  • However, the exact price can also depend on your age, location, and the length of your loan.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • Exactly one year after nipping Marist in the state finals at Duluth’s Cecil Morris Field, the Blessed Trinity Titans did it again in an identical manner, edging Marist 1-0 in the GHSA Class 4A girls’ soccer state championship game on Friday night.
    Jeff Gable, AJC.com, 16 May 2026
  • In practical terms, each new bridge design can be realized with identical effort once the robot and mix are ready.
    Srishti Gupta, Interesting Engineering, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • The Moon in Taurus moves through your 6th House of Work and Wellness, asking for simple systems, steady routines, and practical follow-through.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 May 2026
  • But his steady 82-game audition in 2025-26 should make the organization confident enough to invest long-term in the left-shot center.
    Fluto Shinzawa, New York Times, 15 May 2026
Verb
  • For now, the Dolphins believe Proctor playing guard not only helps the Dolphins field their five best linemen, but also will smooth his transition to the NFL.
    Barry Jackson, Miami Herald, 12 May 2026
  • His expression smoothed itself out.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 May 2026
Verb
  • Pitching coach Tommy Hottovy equated Brown’s role this season to a fork in the road, though not in a do-this-or-things-won’t-go-well way.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 15 May 2026
  • Spending doesn’t equate directly to winning.
    Daniel Sperry, Kansas City Star, 13 May 2026
Adverb
  • As the two bond in short order, our previously flailing hero shapes up very quickly indeed, soon shedding his substance abuse problems and entering a healthy relationship with dreamy social worker Oscar (Diego Calva).
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 16 May 2026
  • If this is indeed corrected by the league, Clark would have only the sixth 30-point, 10-assist game in WNBA history.
    Jon Root OutKick, FOXNews.com, 16 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Even.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/even. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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