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

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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

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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

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
That is because taking something in 3D, like Earth, and drawing it in flat 2D as a map is always going to result in distortions. — ABC News, 20 Sep. 2026 But worn sheets, flat pillows, and a comforter that’s lost its fluff can make winding down less inviting. — Toni Sutton, PEOPLE, 19 Sep. 2026
Adverb
And the Pacifica’s Stow ‘n Go seating lets the second- and third-row seats fold flat into the floor, quickly turning passenger space into cargo room. — Chris Hardesty, AJC.com, 11 Sep. 2026 Multi-fuel and flat-packing stoves are becoming a massive trend for backcountry adventurers who want to ditch standard gas canisters. — New Atlas, 10 Sep. 2026
Noun
Finish the look by styling the pants with an airy white blouse and cherry red flats. — Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 21 Sep. 2026 For example, these compliment-worthy grommet Mary Jane flats can go from your work desk to drinks with the girls effortlessly. — Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 21 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • The exact terms of the PWHL’s loan, including the value of the league’s intellectual property, were not disclosed in the documents.
    — Justin Birnbaum, Sportico.com, 23 Sep. 2026
  • An underfunded, conditional, or incomplete proposal may not qualify, but that determination depends on the offer’s exact wording and the governing law.
    — Ethan Stone, Miami Herald, 23 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Virtually all those trips involved hassle that was a bore to write about and just as boring to read.
    — Paul Theroux, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Sep. 2026
  • The Arizona Cardinals lost to the Seattle Seahawks 31-7 in a disappointing and boring game.
    — Bill Goodykoontz, AZCentral.com, 20 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The plains were a far smoother ride, and both our joints and the Jeep’s suspension settled down to coast over kilometres of unbroken grassland.
    — Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Sep. 2026
  • The advanced thermal control ensures stable temperatures to maintain smooth performance.
    — George Yang, PC Magazine, 22 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The Nebraska researchers also found that hafnia becomes more stable as its thickness decreases.
    — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 26 Sep. 2026
  • The parties see upside in a merger, according to the report, because both companies’ shares have been undervalued and People’s stable of lifestyle magazines like Food & Wine could complement the hospitality offerings of MGM.
    — Dade Hayes, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • During the recent session, Soto taught people how to make coils for teardrop designs along with other simple shapes.
    — Janice Neumann, Chicago Tribune, 20 Sep. 2026
  • The simplest distinction is powered flight versus unpowered glide.
    — Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 20 Sep. 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
  • Webflow's free templates are visually bland, so the premium templates are basically required to build an attractive site.
    — Jordan Minor, PC Magazine, 14 Sep. 2026
  • Roasting brings out its sweetness and adds depth, transforming it from bland to rich and slightly caramelized.
    — Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 9 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • To achieve the best results, spread a thin layer across the soil’s surface, leaving space around the stems.
    — Sophie Flaxman, Better Homes & Gardens, 24 Sep. 2026
  • In its 2026 testing, conventional thin detergent sheets performed worse overall than even the lowest-scoring liquid and pod detergents.
    — Ryan Brennan, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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