recumbent

Definition of recumbentnext
as in horizontal
formal lying down The Egyptian sphinx has the body of a recumbent lion. a recumbent position

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How does the adjective recumbent differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of recumbent are prone, prostrate, and supine. While all these words mean "lying down," recumbent implies the posture of one sleeping or resting.

a patient comfortably recumbent in a hospital bed

When might prone be a better fit than recumbent?

While the synonyms prone and recumbent are close in meaning, prone implies a position with the front of the body turned toward the supporting surface.

push-ups require a prone position

In what contexts can prostrate take the place of recumbent?

The words prostrate and recumbent can be used in similar contexts, but prostrate implies lying full-length as in submission, defeat, or physical collapse.

a runner fell prostrate at the finish line

Where would supine be a reasonable alternative to recumbent?

The words supine and recumbent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, supine implies lying on one's back and suggests inertness or abjectness.

lying supine on the couch

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 recumbent The series’ first image is of Clark, a local weatherman, commuting to work on his recumbent bike, as dorky a mode of transportation as has ever been invented. Alison Herman, Variety, 1 Mar. 2026 One day, Clark, who rides his recumbent bike into the city, is reporting on a cyclone when he nearly gets decapitated by a flying stop sign. Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 27 Feb. 2026 The rider stance here is described as semi-recumbent, with an upright body and outstretched feet. New Atlas, 16 Jan. 2026 Generally, recumbent bikes offer a more relaxed posture and allow the user to perform a less strenuous cardio workout. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 7 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for recumbent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for recumbent
Adjective
  • To make my life easier, please try to send horizontal photos.
    Joe Kinsey OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 Apr. 2026
  • The top is designed with horizontal pleated detailing and cap sleeves, while the bottoms offer a simple, wide-leg silhouette with side pockets and a drawstring to adjust the fit to your liking.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • These Bagsmart Clear Toiletry Bags keep everything visible and TSA-compliant, with a sturdy plastic construction that doesn’t feel flimsy or prone to tearing.
    Samantha Leal, Travel + Leisure, 18 Apr. 2026
  • But while certain neighborhoods like the one in Utica remain prone to flooding, Macomb County Public Works officials tell a different story about the rest of the county.
    Heath Kalb, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • This prototype’s appears flat under the vinyl, unlike the coupe’s, which has a scalloped center and raised side rails.
    Byron Hurd, The Drive, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Their songs are the hardest to sing and there were some flat notes sung Wednesday.
    Pam Kragen, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Recumbent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/recumbent. Accessed 22 Apr. 2026.

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