flat 1 of 3

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

Relevance

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

3
4
5
6
7
8

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

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
Stocks claw their way back to flat and recession fears are fading. Catherine Baab, Quartz, 14 May 2025 When approached from the relatively flat plain to the east, the pit appears suddenly beneath a small rise. Michael Ray Taylor, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 May 2025
Adverb
However, to prevent fainting, stay well-hydrated and avoid lying flat on the back after the first trimester.11 Warning Signs Sometimes, fainting happens suddenly, without warning. Angela Ryan Lee, Verywell Health, 17 Apr. 2025 All three pieces fold up flat and can be leaned against an outdoor wall or easily carried inside to store at the end of the season. Clint Davis, People.com, 29 Apr. 2025
Noun
Within the category, there are plenty of styles of ballet flats to choose from. Celia Shatzman, Forbes.com, 30 Apr. 2025 Also, the breakaway hook-and-loop closure offers a secure and flexible fit for your baby. Toddler Girls' Mary Jane Ballet Flats: $19.90 Grab a classic pair of Mary Jane ballet flats to complete a fancy look perfect for weddings or special days out. Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 30 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • More details about the exact risks these storms will pose and the populations under threat next week will become clear in the coming days.
    Matt Rehbein, CNN Money, 17 May 2025
  • The exact path of the storm was not clear, Yack said.
    Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • The Salon Clutch Structured yet theatrical, Le Salon is Jacquemus’s answer to the evening clutch—pared back, but never boring.
    Lilah Ramzi, Vogue, 10 May 2025
  • Robinson stars as Craig Waterman, a regular suburban guy with a boring job, a charming florist wife who's losing interest in him (Kate Mara), and a teenage son (Jack Dylan Grazer) whose indifference borders on hostility.
    Stephanie Zacharek, Time, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • They’re made with a contoured footbed packed with arch support, as well as a deep heel cup to keep your feet stable.
    Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 2025
  • Unlike stable angina, unstable angina is considered a medical emergency.
    MD Published, Verywell Health, 12 May 2025
Adjective
  • Simple Systems: Create ease and flow with simple back-end structures and client journeys.
    Christine Williams, Forbes.com, 12 May 2025
  • Style them with a simple tank for a casual day out, or add a blazer and ballet flats for a more polished airport look.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 12 May 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
  • From there, the Angels have been one of MLB’s most bland and underachieving franchises.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 May 2025
  • Charlie Byrd of New Babylon is almost as forgettable and bland.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 11 May 2025
Adjective
  • The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 13 May 2025
  • The new device measures in at 5.8mm, which Samsung claims is its thinnest ever Galaxy S smartphone.
    Janhoi McGregor, Forbes.com, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • Jane Doe, 2001: A New York woman who alleged Sherman, a friend's love interest, offered her a ride after partying at a nightclub, then raped her at gunpoint after stopping at his NYC apartment.
    KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 13 May 2025
  • Authorities found the 61-year-old victim lying on the couch in his own apartment, suffering from at least six stab wounds, according to the court documents.
    Mike Stunson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on flat

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!