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
When cast onto a flat mold and dried out, the microgel assembles into a paper or film, depending on the final thickness, that is strong yet flexible. Sandy Ong, JSTOR Daily, 11 Sep. 2025 His royal points were about 25 inches long and flat like butter knives. Jack Atcheson Sr. As Told To Michael Hanback, Outdoor Life, 11 Sep. 2025
Adverb
Florida is leaving no stone unturned to avoid falling flat, as expectations are as high as ever. Noah White, Miami Herald, 19 Aug. 2025 Some people suffer from physical ailments that make sleeping flat uncomfortable, if not dangerous. Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 19 Aug. 2025
Noun
Try pairing it with mesh Alaïa mesh flats to bring sporty contrast into the mix. Andrea Zendejas, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2025 DeJean, who was the flat defender in quarters coverage, became a free defender reading the quarterback because linebacker Zack Baun followed the running back to the flat. Zach Berman, New York Times, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • While this exact model is meant for the European market, Roborock has promised that similar ones will be making their way to the US soon.
    Andrew Gebhart, PC Magazine, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Our moments of uncanny convergence—like bumping into an old flame at the exact right (or wrong) time—function like indulgences did in the days of Martin Luther, tempting us in the promise of paradise.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 8 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Farming takes so long and is so boring, some of us said.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 2025
  • The Clark County Fire Department said that tunnel boring operations had been temporarily halted at the site pending an ongoing accident investigation.
    Jessica Mathews, Fortune, 11 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Any liquid water on TRAPPIST-1 e would be accompanied by a greenhouse effect, which would involve various gases, especially carbon dioxide, keeping the atmosphere stable and the planet warm.
    Julia Jacobo, ABC News, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Your core muscles, back muscles, and balance may improve as your body works to remain stable against the extra weight.
    Claire Bugos, Verywell Health, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Their simple plan goes awry when one of their relatives wants a posh Korean wedding banquet in the heartfelt romantic comedy.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The inspiration The Copleys wanted a low-water garden that would be simple to care for.
    Caron Golden, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Gone are the days of the ultra-matte liquid lipstick.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2025
  • 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
Adjective
  • The new Spot+Scrub Ai is the complete opposite and comparatively bland, thanks to its all-black exterior.
    Tyler Hayes, PC Magazine, 8 Sep. 2025
  • Food made by white people is often associated with and critiqued for being bland and unseasoned.
    Marni Rose McFall, MSNBC Newsweek, 2 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Leaders who pay attention to these lessons now will be best prepared to thrive in a world where the boundaries between Earth and orbit are becoming ever thinner.
    Bernard Marr, Forbes.com, 12 Sep. 2025
  • 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.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Adverb
  • This is when a bone gets knocked out of its joint either partially or completely.
    Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Lecornu will now have to steer a budget through France’s completely fractured parliament, macro strategists at Deutsche Bank flagged Wednesday.
    Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 15 Sep. 2025.

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