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
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
  • Whoever guesses the exact day and hour each bird takes their first flight wins an honorary certificate.
    Anthony Robledo, USA Today, 17 May 2025
  • The exact path of the storm was not clear, Yack said.
    Caroline Kubzansky, Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2025
Adjective
  • Belief that your institution is exempt from the hard, functional and often boring parts of the job leads to a slow decline.
    Carl Anka, New York Times, 22 May 2025
  • As a small-market team, for the majority of my life, Indiana has been looked at as boring or whatever the case may be.
    Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 20 May 2025
Adjective
  • Having stabilized their bank balances and secured pay rises, consumers are now spending in anticipation of a more stable interest rate and price environment, according to the economist.
    Ganesh Rao,Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 23 May 2025
  • The component loadout is good for the price, with 16GB of RAM making multi-tasking smooth and stable.
    K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 23 May 2025
Adjective
  • Trevon Williams, who did not escape from the New Orleans jail, was charged with 10 counts of being a principal to simple escape, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced on May 23.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 25 May 2025
  • As artificial intelligence models grow increasingly sophisticated, their capabilities extend far beyond simple task execution.
    Cornelia C. Walther, Forbes.com, 24 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
  • Your doctor may want to use a laryngoscope, a camera on a thin tube placed down your throat, to examine your voice box and determine if postnasal drip or something else is causing your symptoms, Cho says.
    Sarah Klein, Time, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • One person says they are being offered apartments belonging to residents who left Mariupol.
    Clare Sebastian, CNN Money, 13 May 2025
  • The apartment has three closets, a small foyer, and hardwood floors with penny tile in the bathroom.
    Kim Velsey, Curbed, 13 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 27 May. 2025.

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