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 The retro visual opens with the singer wearing a black leotard and sitting on a white chaise, before transitioning to moodier shots of Gomez fitted in a two-piece and glossy leather jacket surrounded by smoke. Charisma Madarang, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025 The streamer is stocked with content from both of its parents, including Sky Studios’ glossy new series The Iris Affair and Taylor Sheridan’s Yellowstone, which has been a driver of subscriptions. Jake Kanter, Deadline, 22 Oct. 2025 Gabrielle Union glowed with glossy lips and sky-high lashes, and Viola Davis added a playful edge with a pop of blue eyeliner. Larry Stansbury, Essence, 21 Oct. 2025 The look is unapologetically maximalist, featuring rhinestones, glossy lips, spiky hair, and metallic purses. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glossy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy
Adjective
  • Today’s comfy trousers look polished but feel as comfy as your favorite pair of sweatpants.
    Kelsey Glennon, Travel + Leisure, 29 Oct. 2025
  • Some of the highlights of the collection are the super heavyweight sweatshirts and joggers (650g) designed to hold shape wear after wear; a heavyweight jersey (300g) with an oversized, roomy fit; and an interlock jersey (300g) with a polished finish.
    Renan Botelho, Footwear News, 28 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • On our shopping list is a polished king bed that’s 39% off, an armoire that’s perfect for stashing seasonal clothing, and a sleek metal accent table under $200.
    Mariana Best, Better Homes & Gardens, 30 Oct. 2025
  • Hilton kept it sleek in a black mini-dress with fishnet panels and thigh-high boots, finishing her look with dark shades and blunt bangs.
    Danielle Minnetian, FOXNews.com, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Guests can dine at the on-site Beacon Restaurant, stroll the nearby boardwalk, or unwind by the fire pits as the sun seemingly dips into the glistening lake.
    Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2025
  • While Alberta Ferretti creative director Lorenzo Serafini's runway design featured glistening embellishments and more dramatic draping, the shoppable cape dress does not include an open back at all.
    Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 19 Oct. 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 2 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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