flat 1 of 3

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

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

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

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

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
Compared to ultra-flat styles, a slightly thicker sandal is better equipped to absorb impact and keep your feet comfortable throughout the day. Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 23 Apr. 2026 Unlike down puffer jackets, those with synthetic fill can be successfully air-dried by laying the jacket flat on a clean towel. Katie Cloyd, Martha Stewart, 22 Apr. 2026
Adverb
Being able to lie down flat and stretch your legs on a long-haul flight will no longer be a luxury exclusive to business and first-class passengers on United Airlines. Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026 In general, flat-cut is better for slicing but may be a bit more expensive. Elizabeth Nelson, Southern Living, 13 Mar. 2026
Noun
Look for open hardwood flats that are secluded and hard to access. Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 16 Apr. 2026 Goldfarb says the couple resisted the impulse to toss aside all furniture pieces from their previous flat and start entirely anew. Lola Ogunnaike, Architectural Digest, 16 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • Unless an author volunteers the exact amount, only the people involved in the deal will know how much that was.
    Josh Rivera, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2026
  • The exact numerical values chosen for each situation are subjective.
    Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 19 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Pickled onions add a bright acidity, and everything gets tossed in barbecue sauce for a sweet and savory salad that’s anything but boring.
    Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Pastas and Grains Similar to powdered laundry detergent, pastas and grains have packaging that's dull, boring, and bulky.
    Ashlyn Needham, The Spruce, 15 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • In a time when science’s boundaries were less stable, Lamarck’s poetic theories had significant influence, and its traces can even be detected in contemporary epigenetics.
    The New Yorker, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
  • When expectations are clear, support feels more stable and mutual respect grows naturally.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 20 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The overall aesthetic was slightly ascetic without being spartan—a pale, neutral color palette; simple, modern furniture; a few pieces of abstract art.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Apr. 2026
  • This translates to the Gap cardigan sweater and the Levi’s shorts paired with the flats for a simple, slightly elevated look that feels comfortable.
    Isis Briones, Travel + Leisure, 22 Apr. 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
  • Pfeiffer is sensational, her Shyanne is a tough survivor and former Hooters server who’s preparing to wed a kind and rather bland preacher (Greg Kinnear).
    Randy Myers, Mercury News, 15 Apr. 2026
  • The movie does have a few additional in-concert scenes, but the songs, written and produced by Jack Antonoff and Charli xcx, just sound like a bland version of what they’re supposed to be.
    Owen Gleiberman, Variety, 14 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Every few years, replenish spots that look thin and get a lot of traffic.
    Elizabeth Jardina, Better Homes & Gardens, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The handles are weighted and ergonomic without being bulky, and the heads are thin enough to actually get under food—like a delicate omelet—which is a genuine problem with thicker silicone spatulas.
    Jamie Thilman, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Apr. 2026
Adverb
  • Meanwhile, after getting completely smothered over the past two nights, the Red Sox offense jolted to life in the second inning and took advantage of a defensive miscue that extended the inning.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 24 Apr. 2026
  • There are also two completely accessible suites available.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 25 Apr. 2026.

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