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
  • The aesthetic is defined by deep red and forest green tartans, warm lighting, elevated accents, and sophisticated dinnerware that evokes classic holiday charm with a polished Americana flair.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2025
  • For nearly 30 years, NB Design Group has excelled at crafting polished interiors that reveal a deep understanding of its clients.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • With its strand of diamonds, the necklace is substantial enough to leave a lasting impression when worn solo with everything from your favorite band tee or a sleek silk blouse.
    Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Shoppers can snag durable sets like the Coolife 3-piece Luggage Set for less than $100, plus sleek carry-ons like the Wrangler 20-inch Carry-On Luggage that had thousands of buys this past month.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Filler shots of chauffeurs, champagne and colossal walk-in closets with pristine designer clobber glistening and gleaming from glass shelves centred around trays and trays of priceless jewels assault the viewer’s senses between almost every scene.
    Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025
  • 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
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 8 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

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