level 1 of 3

as in position
the placement of someone or something in relation to others in a vertical arrangement a young karate student ready to rise to the next level in his chosen art of self-defense

Synonyms & Similar Words

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level

2 of 3

verb

1
as in to balance
to make equal in amount, degree, or status we'll give both teams the same equipment so as to level the playing field

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in to smooth
to make free from breaks, curves, or bumps the construction workers leveled the ground before laying a foundation for the new house

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

3
as in to aim
to point or turn (something) toward a target or goal the marksman leveled his gun at the target and fired

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

4
5

level

3 of 3

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective level contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of level are even, flat, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

When is it sensible to use even instead of level?

In some situations, the words even and level 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 might flat be a better fit than level?

The meanings of flat and level largely overlap; however, flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When is plane a more appropriate choice than level?

The words plane and level are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 could smooth be used to replace level?

The synonyms smooth and level are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 level
Noun
The predominant narrative among many springs scientists, advocates and government officials is that rising nitrate levels in springs over the past few decades fuels the growth of excess algae. Christopher F. Meindl, The Conversation, 3 Oct. 2025 This level of homegrown production underscores the country’s broader push to achieve self-sufficiency in cutting-edge technologies that are critical to its long-term energy transition and clean power ambitions. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
In 2015, the terrorist group ISIS leveled the library of Mosul along with over 100,000 books. Ryan Byrnes, Literary Hub, 7 Oct. 2025 Other creature comforts include a Renogy electrical system with a touchscreen command center, air conditioning, and an auto-leveling suspension. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 6 Oct. 2025
Adjective
Ahead of Amazon's October Prime Day, a multi-level cat tree is on sale for 23% off. Christine Persaud, USA Today, 2 Oct. 2025 The College of Business and Economics will soon be the home of Landmark Hall, a 20,000-square-foot tri-level building featuring a television studio, auditorium, executive boardroom and training room. Lou Ponsi, Oc Register, 29 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for level
Recent Examples of Synonyms for level
Noun
  • Undoubtedly, there are players with potential and talent at Tuchel’s disposal, but very little valuable experience in a position that requires more maturity and discipline.
    Rob Tanner, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025
  • The company is establishing the Accessibility Council and creating new roles, including outreach positions that will collaborate with communities who advocate for disability inclusion.
    Charna Flam, PEOPLE, 23 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • One challenge from last year was raising her younger kids, one in elementary school and two in middle school, while balancing a full-time job.
    Elizabeth B. Kim, Cincinnati Enquirer, 6 Oct. 2025
  • The City of Waukesha has joined a growing list of area communities that have proposed fees to balance a budget beset by rising costs and a state property tax rule that limits local revenue.
    Jim Riccioli, jsonline.com, 6 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Touch in Sol’s fan-favorite primer smooths skin with a lightweight, velvety finish that blurs the appearance of pores and grips onto makeup in place all day.
    Sarah Han, Allure, 9 Oct. 2025
  • Truly, the gadget is that girl — capable of smoothing, de-frizzing, and adding effortless bounce to your locks while granting damage-free curls thanks to Shark’s Coanda technology (which automatically wraps strands around the barrel, saving you the time and hassle of DIYing it).
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 8 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Starmer made the announcement during a two-day trade mission aimed at strengthening ties with one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 8 Oct. 2025
  • According to a China State Council directive, the country is aiming for AI adoption to reach 70% of the population by 2027 by imbuing various agents and other applications across core industries.
    Jaures Yip, CNBC, 8 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Report downed power lines to the police.
    CA Weather Bot, Sacbee.com, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Chapman was part of a SEAL Team Six mission during the war in Afghanistan in which helicopters were downed.
    Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 3 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Although a formal vote was not taken, there was consensus among the city council members on Monday night to demolish the old City Hall and to preserve the old fire station, Leawood spokesperson Beth Breitenstein said in an email.
    Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 3 Oct. 2025
  • The Jokake Inn closed in the late 1970s and was demolished, except for its Pueblo revival-style belfry towers, which were incorporated into The Phoenician.
    Douglas C. Towne, AZCentral.com, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • He was being put through training recently to test his ability to stay calm under pressure as Douglas tried to overstimulate his senses.
    Craig Shoup, Nashville Tennessean, 3 Oct. 2025
  • What made the situation a whole lot easier for both of them was the fact that Breezy stayed happy and calm in her car seat through the whole episode.
    Jack Beresford, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Last year’s ranking provided important insights into 2,400 hospitals in 30 countries, including Australia, Canada, Chile, India, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States.
    Newsweek Rankings, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 Oct. 2025
  • Kenya and Panama, with similar attractions as those higher on the list, tied for ninth to make the complete top 10 ranking.
    Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 3 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Level.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/level. Accessed 11 Oct. 2025.

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