level 1 of 3

Definition of levelnext
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

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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

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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

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level

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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
Earlier versions of the system reached lower field levels in 2023. Sujita Sinha, Interesting Engineering, 28 Jan. 2026 The stars on this list, including Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, LeBron James and Kim Kardashian, have amassed a large amount of money — at least 1,000 million — and reached a level of wealth that only 3,028 people in the world have, according to Forbes. Diane J. Cho, PEOPLE, 18 Jan. 2026
Verb
Align with what actually levels you up, not what confirms bias, is rage bait or just gives a dopamine hit. Magi Helena, Dallas Morning News, 26 Jan. 2026 The weather-resistant housing can sit outside for five years without maintenance – just plug it in and level it. New Atlas, 26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
The balm improves accessibility for pro-level artistry and beginners. Essence, 14 Jan. 2026 Ultimately, the erosion of morale at mid-level positions was what ended Communist rule in East Germany. Robin Wright, New Yorker, 13 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for level
Recent Examples of Synonyms for level
Noun
  • His 1,500 career hits, for example, would be the lowest total by any position player elected to the Hall of Fame by the BBWAA since Ralph Kiner (1,451) in 1975.
    Mac Cerullo, Boston Herald, 25 Jan. 2026
  • But some people with different ideological positions saw different videos, from different angles, and reached totally different conclusions about what happened — partly due to cues from political leaders.
    Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 25 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Reducing Friction For Your Manager And Team Promotion decisions often reward people who make other people’s jobs easier, especially the jobs of leaders who have to balance multiple priorities.
    Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Any downsides have to be balanced against the very real risks of avoiding medication, psychiatrists stress.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Contour seams enhance lifting, smoothing and comfortable compression.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Two stagehands were smoothing the surface with bladed scrapers.
    Bob Morris, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • In cross-country skiing, endurance specialists aim for glory in events such as the women’s 10 km classic and men’s 15 km freestyle, both of which deliver thrilling head-to-head action that culminates in medal ceremonies at the finish line against the snowy backdrop of Valtellina.
    Sam Leveridge, Forbes.com, 29 Jan. 2026
  • The actions of Canadian coach Joe Cecchini and Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton were intentional and deliberately aimed at reducing the points available.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The storm, a wintry mix of cold rain, sleet and ice, led to road closures, downed poles and trees, and for many, over 24 hours of waiting it out.
    Morayo Ogunbayo, AJC.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • The result broke a seven-game win streak for the Ducks, who downed the Calgary Flames 4-3 in overtime on Sunday.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 27 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • The World Food Program said in an earlier statement that its warehouse was demolished by Somali authorities.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 30 Jan. 2026
  • The building will be demolished to make way for an 86-unit affordable housing development, according to board documents.
    Kate Armanini, Chicago Tribune, 30 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The Minneapolis Police Department asked for the public to remain calm after Saturday's shooting.
    Jackson Thompson, FOXNews.com, 25 Jan. 2026
  • The police chief appealed for calm, both from the public and federal law enforcement.
    Jack Brook, Los Angeles Times, 24 Jan. 2026
Noun
  • In general the editors gave it a low ranking, citing a lack of flavor and a strong aftertaste.
    Kimberly Holland, Southern Living, 30 Jan. 2026
  • But one recent prospect ranking dropped an Elly comparison onto a teenager buried deep in the Phillies’ farm system.
    Anthony Stitt, Forbes.com, 30 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Level.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/level. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.

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