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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

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adverb

flat

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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

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
The four-piece sheet set comes with a flat sheet, top sheet, and two pillowcases. Blake Bakkila, Architectural Digest, 11 July 2025 Nearly a century ago, someone had split open the flat fossil slab, leaving the skeleton in one half and the skeleton’s outline in the other. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 11 July 2025
Adverb
Our Top Picks But finding the formula that controls shine without looking flat—and lasts through humidity, hormones, and hot subway platforms alike—requires more than just a mattifying claim on the label. Deanna Pai, Allure, 4 July 2025 The thing is made from an ultra-tough ripstop TPU shell, carries up to 250 pounds, and collapses down flat. Frederick Dreier, Outside Online, 3 July 2025
Noun
Speaking of flattering, the skirt’s ankle length and asymmetrical hem gives it a fluttery look that pairs well with sandals, flats, espadrilles, or heels. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 July 2025 The royal added further to her look, wearing a pair of slingback ballerina flats courtesy of Gianvito Rossi and accessorized with a pair of sunglasses by Louis Vuitton, a favorite designer of the royal. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 10 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • More research is needed to determine the exact amount of glutamine in pork.
    Lindsey DeSoto, Health, 15 July 2025
  • The exact revenue baseline won’t be known until Maryland files its FY25 financials with the NCAA early next year.
    Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Hunter: The Reckoning puts players in the role of regular people who know monsters are real and can’t go back to their old, boring lives.
    Rob Wieland, Forbes.com, 21 July 2025
  • Take away the road courses or boring ovals and race more street courses.
    Saajan Jogia, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 July 2025
Adjective
  • His early stardom never quite translated into a stable senior career as opportunities dried up in a system overflowing with talent.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 11 July 2025
  • The president further argues that lower rates will make financing the ever-increasing federal debt cheaper, a factor which does not play into the Fed’s statutory dual mandate of ensuring maximum sustainable employment and stable prices.
    Ron Insana, CNBC, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Chris wore a simple navy blue polo shirt and khaki shorts combo, while Alexa showed off her growing bump in a white and blue floral dress — along with an Olympic logo necklace to complete her maternity style.
    Kayla Grant, People.com, 11 July 2025
  • While in many ways, this flat 33km time-trial is simple, particularly in its middle section, there is still plenty to watch out for.
    Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • This Lulus bag is primarily matte and clean, with just a tinge of silver on the top handle and cutesy bow.
    Alyssa Grabinski, People.com, 22 Feb. 2025
  • To get this result, Dempsey recommends the Dior Addict Lip Tint for its transfer-proof, semi-matte finish.
    Loren Savini, Allure, 22 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The bland Ballade is a lesser score by the late 19th and early 20th century British composer who deserves a revival for his more substantial works.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2025
  • In both vehicles he was played by George Reeves, polite, bland and not noticeably muscled.
    Tom Gliatto, People.com, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • The team riding the thinnest edge between terrified anxiety and self-perpetuating hype.
    Alex Kirshner, New York Times, 12 July 2025
  • What is a ‘washable’ rug, anyway? Typically made of synthetic fibers like nylon or polypropylene, washable rugs are thinner and more lightweight than traditional rugs, especially in larger sizes.
    The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 July 2025
Noun
  • But one apartment on the first floor has a bad odor that emanates from it.
    Eric Thomas, Sun Sentinel, 12 July 2025
  • But one apartment on the first floor has a bad odor that emanates from it when walking past the door.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 12 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 25 Jul. 2025.

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