flat 1 of 3

Definition of flatnext
1
as in exact
being neither more nor less than a certain amount, number, or extent industrial growth has been a flat two percent for each of the last four quarters

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in boring
causing weariness, restlessness, or lack of interest a flat portrayal of Benjamin Franklin in the new TV series

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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flat

2 of 3

adverb

flat

3 of 3

noun

chiefly British

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flat are even, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When would even be a good substitute for flat?

In some situations, the words even and flat are roughly equivalent. However, 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 is it sensible to use level instead of flat?

The words level and flat can be used in similar contexts, but level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

Where would plane be a reasonable alternative to flat?

While in some cases nearly identical to flat, 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 smooth a more appropriate choice than flat?

The words smooth and flat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

How does the adjective flat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flat are even, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When would even be a good substitute for flat?

In some situations, the words even and flat are roughly equivalent. However, 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 is it sensible to use level instead of flat?

The words level and flat can be used in similar contexts, but level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

Where would plane be a reasonable alternative to flat?

While in some cases nearly identical to flat, 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 smooth a more appropriate choice than flat?

The words smooth and flat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

How does the adjective flat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flat are even, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When would even be a good substitute for flat?

In some situations, the words even and flat are roughly equivalent. However, 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 is it sensible to use level instead of flat?

The words level and flat can be used in similar contexts, but level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

Where would plane be a reasonable alternative to flat?

While in some cases nearly identical to flat, 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 smooth a more appropriate choice than flat?

The words smooth and flat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 flat
Adjective
Compared to ultra-flat styles, a slightly thicker sandal is better equipped to absorb impact and keep your feet comfortable throughout the day. Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2026 Unlike down puffer jackets, those with synthetic fill can be successfully air-dried by laying the jacket flat on a clean towel. Katie Cloyd, Martha Stewart, 22 Apr. 2026
Adverb
Speaking of the fancy hybrid varieties, each flower appears to be a flower within a flower, since each typically consists of two contrasting floral stars, lying flat upon one another. Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 3 Apr. 2026 The United States isn’t alone in being caught flat-footed. Brynn Tannehill, The Atlantic, 31 Mar. 2026
Noun
On her feet, rounded black leather flats. Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 22 Apr. 2026 Add heat mats or place flats in a warm location, like the top of your refrigerator. Barbara Gillette, The Spruce, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • The exact reasons are often left vague, and the successors to be determined, but people are leaving.
    Benjamin Wallace-Wells, New Yorker, 26 Apr. 2026
  • The exact number of beds that will be added has yet to be determined.
    Kenneth R. Gosselin, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • And given all of the drama leading into the event, pretty good marks and a relatively boring draft add up to a win.
    Chad Graff, New York Times, 25 Apr. 2026
  • As an interactive greeter, Melody shows how smart AI can turn boring service kiosks into friendly, lifelike conversations.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 24 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The survivor is in stable condition.
    Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 27 Apr. 2026
  • He was placed on detox monitoring, which was later discontinued after his condition appeared stable.
    Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The overall aesthetic was slightly ascetic without being spartan—a pale, neutral color palette; simple, modern furniture; a few pieces of abstract art.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Apr. 2026
  • This translates to the Gap cardigan sweater and the Levi’s shorts paired with the flats for a simple, slightly elevated look that feels comfortable.
    Isis Briones, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Its 85-inch QLED display features a highly matte anti-glare screen, so your art and movies look lifelike without annoying reflections.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The long-wearing formula sets to a semi-matte finish that resists oil and humidity, too.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Pfeiffer is sensational, her Shyanne is a tough survivor and former Hooters server who’s preparing to wed a kind and rather bland preacher (Greg Kinnear).
    Randy Myers, Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2026
  • The movie does have a few additional in-concert scenes, but the songs, written and produced by Jack Antonoff and Charli xcx, just sound like a bland version of what they’re supposed to be.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Every few years, replenish spots that look thin and get a lot of traffic.
    Elizabeth Jardina, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The handles are weighted and ergonomic without being bulky, and the heads are thin enough to actually get under food—like a delicate omelet—which is a genuine problem with thicker silicone spatulas.
    Jamie Thilman, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Apr. 2026
Adverb
  • Meanwhile, after getting completely smothered over the past two nights, the Red Sox offense jolted to life in the second inning and took advantage of a defensive miscue that extended the inning.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
  • There are also two completely accessible suites available.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 27 Apr. 2026.

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