Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective glossy differ from other similar words?

The words sleek and slick are common synonyms of glossy. While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," glossy suggests a highly reflective surface.

photographs having a glossy finish

When could sleek be used to replace glossy?

The synonyms sleek and glossy are sometimes interchangeable, but sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning.

a sleek racehorse

When can slick be used instead of glossy?

The words slick and glossy can be used in similar contexts, but slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface.

slipped and fell on the slick floor

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 glossy As for her glam, Blunt’s chocolate brown hair was pulled back into a tight chignon, while her makeup included such details as bold brows, lined eyes and a glossy lip. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 11 June 2025 For now, the area remains an incredible cultural haven for those who crave an adventure beyond the glossy resorts. Danielle Robles, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2025 There’s much talk about unicorns in the dating field in Song’s script, and her film could be called the same — a glossy, good-looking drama veined with humor, introspection and questioning intelligence, driven as much by insightful writing as star charisma. David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 9 June 2025 Straight, even, smooth, and glossy hair denotes strength, harmony, and evenness of character, hearty affections, a clear head, and superior talents. Literary Hub, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for glossy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy
Adjective
  • Related Story For a more elevated aesthetic, Dotto notes they can also be worn raw or given a light wash to evoke the polished sophistication of formalwear.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 18 June 2025
  • There’s also concern that kids are becoming self-conscious earlier, pressured to present a polished image both on and offline.
    Dia Gallo, Parents, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • The result is a sleek, elegant vessel that stays true to the aggressive spirit of the GTX line with its clean lines, a slightly convex sheer, and a near-vertical bow.
    Katia Damborsky, Forbes.com, 13 June 2025
  • The chairs feature a scoop-style silhouette and tapered dowel legs, giving them a sleek, minimalist and mid-century modern aesthetic.
    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, 13 June 2025
Adjective
  • Pop a satin version on top of your usual night-out curls to make the 'do feel glamorous.
    Jasmine Washington, Seventeen, 18 Jan. 2023
  • From satin pillowcases to a hydrating moisturizer, all of these products are on sale for less than $25.
    Isabel Garcia, Peoplemag, 13 Jan. 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Glossy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glossy. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

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