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

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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
Metals and mining sales were flat sequentially. CNBC, 31 Oct. 2025 The department placed its last order of blanks (the flat metal disks used to make the coins) in May. Saleen Martin, USA Today, 31 Oct. 2025
Adverb
MiuMiu practically declared the satin ballet flat the it-fall shoe back in 2022, sending models down the runway in various color combos of their dainty flats with warm chunky socks. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 18 Oct. 2025 Among the highlights, a Sam Edelman Felicia ballet flat priced at $100 at the start of TAG’s checks in April remains at $100. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 17 Oct. 2025
Noun
Heawish Pointed-Toe Faux Suede Ballet Flats Kate Middleton also recently turned to suede flats this season. Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 24 Oct. 2025 But what happens when Garrett is breathing down Maye’s neck and a receiver pops open in the flat? Andrew Callahan, Boston Herald, 23 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • Kroger asking customers for exact change Though legally able to do so, Kroger so far is not refusing pennies or cash payments.
    Alexander Coolidge, USA Today, 3 Nov. 2025
  • While the exact names differ by brand, most follow a similar pattern.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Though the pacing and breadth of the episode ensure that things never get boring, not all the stories are equally compelling.
    Scott Meslow, Vulture, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Klum doesn't want to let anyone down by choosing the boring or easy way out with a costume.
    Hedy Phillips, PEOPLE, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Coaching is stable under Jon Scheyer, who starts his fourth season after replacing the legendary Mike Krzyzewski.
    Kilty Cleary, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2025
  • The fund aims to support original game projects from the R&D phase with early-stage capital, offering Taiwanese development teams stable financial backing and professional guidance to transform their ideas into internationally competitive original IPs.
    Liz Shackleton, Deadline, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • While House Republicans can pass legislation with a simple majority vote, Senate Republicans cannot advance most matters without meeting a 60-vote threshold.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2025
  • But in stoppage time, Miami was gifted a third goal when Jordi Alba crossed from the left and keeper Willis, colliding with defender Walker Zimmerman, spilled the ball right to Messi, who had the simplest of tap-ins.
    The Athletic Staff, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The long-wearing formula sets to a semi-matte finish that resists oil and humidity, too.
    Sarah Han, Allure, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Gone are the days of the ultra-matte liquid lipstick.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The Super Chai Fuel was a touch bland, but could be a good option for those who prefer something less sweet.
    Alaina Chou, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Oct. 2025
  • If your instinct, in other words, is to smooth things over with a bland fabrication, try dropping a tiny truth bomb instead.
    James Parker, The Atlantic, 28 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The moon is glimmering, the veil between worlds is thin and there’s an air of mischief lingering in the shadows.
    Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025
  • Card Case Speaking of only keeping the essentials on hand, this ultra-thin card case is an excellent replacement for a bulky, overstuffed wallet when traveling.
    Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2025
Adverb
  • The Mets struggled down the stretch and missed the postseason completely despite having one of the highest payrolls in the league.
    Zach Pressnell, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Beach players stepped on the baseline three times in the first half and another, trying to avoid a shot blocker, lofted a runner completely over the backboard in the second.
    Mark Zeigler, San Diego Union-Tribune, 5 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 6 Nov. 2025.

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