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
On the second level, the Tigers have Sammy Brown, a speedy linebacker who was a huge recruit for them and looked every bit as good as his hype last year. Bruce Feldman, New York Times, 18 May 2025 This proved to be a good decision, as people resonated with the film on a very emotional level. Christopher Vourlias, Variety, 18 May 2025
Verb
There’s another game to play on Wednesday, with the Panthers trying to level the best-of-7 series. Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 6 May 2025 This comes after years of criticism leveled at the flagship drag competition franchise RuPaul’s Drag Race, which has yet to feature a drag artist who has entered and competed as a drag king. Mikelle Street, Them., 2 May 2025
Adjective
Tottenham were suddenly level late in the first half and never looked back. Jack Pitt-Brooke, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024 If the players are level after 14 classical games, a tie-break will be played on December 13. Eduardo Tansley, The Athletic, 23 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for level
Recent Examples of Synonyms for level
Noun
  • The Rafael Devers-Red Sox saga I’ve been surprised by Devers’ reactions every time he’s been asked to change positions.
    Jim Bowden, New York Times, 14 May 2025
  • Businesses with strong cash positions gain both defensive protection and offensive capabilities when opportunities arise.
    David Zybin, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Verb
  • The kingdom must balance its conservative cultural identity with the expectations of international visitors and continue to develop its tourism infrastructure and workforce.
    Ritu Upadhyay, Footwear News, 21 May 2025
  • Diorio said the increase was necessary to balance the budget amid federal cuts and economic uncertainty.
    Nora O’Neill, Charlotte Observer, 21 May 2025
Verb
  • The Red Sox may be hoping a similar meeting in Kansas City can smooth things over with their star player.
    Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 10 May 2025
  • Her super long ponytail, which was teased and smoothed with Tangle Teezer’s Ultimate Detangler Chrome, is not-so-rudely interrupted by tiers of bulbous rings of red hair.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 5 May 2025
Verb
  • That license is currently set to expire on May 27, but sources indicate it may now be extended by 60 days — an apparent diplomatic concession aimed at easing tensions and fostering future cooperation.
    Antonio Maria Delgado, Miami Herald, 21 May 2025
  • New facilities such as the Katie Blessing Center and the Smith Family Behavioral Health Urgent Care aim to provide more places for people in need of care to go.
    Mary Ramsey, Charlotte Observer, 21 May 2025
Verb
  • The town of London, 75 miles south of Lexington, was devastated − with entire neighborhoods razed with homes reduced to rubble, downed power lines and cars flipped and strewn onto yards.
    John Bacon, USA Today, 20 May 2025
  • Meanwhile, Russian forces have downed 75 Ukrainian drones in the past 24 hours, TASS, a Russian state news agency, reported Sunday, citing Russia’s defense ministry.
    Caitlin Danaher, CNN Money, 18 May 2025
Verb
  • WIth Jarren Duran on first with a one-out single in the sixth, Devers demolished Lugo’s first pitch, a 91.8 mph four-seamer.
    Gabrielle Starr, Hartford Courant, 11 May 2025
  • If anything, Gunther should absolutely demolish the beloved McAfee as a way of getting back on the right foot following a surprise submission defeat to Jey Uso at WrestleMania 40.
    Blake Oestriecher, Forbes.com, 10 May 2025
Adjective
  • Three Palestinians in Gaza told Reuters early on Monday afternoon that there had been calm since midday, with no sound of drones or warplanes.
    James Mackenzie, USA Today, 13 May 2025
  • In an Instagram reel, Chenoa, 26, is seen holding her daughter as the baby gazes upwards with a calm expression.
    Maria Morava, MSNBC Newsweek, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • The easy answer is most of the time, but the accurate answer is that out of the 24 roles in this ranking, Pantoliano is evil in 20, neutral in one, and good in three.
    Carrie Wittmer, Vulture, 19 May 2025
  • It's been well over a decade since Aaliyah last scored a hit on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay tally, which is considered the most competitive radio ranking in those genres.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Level.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/level. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

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