shallow 1 of 2

shallow

2 of 2

noun

as in bank
usually shallows plural a place where a body of water (as a sea or river) is shallow we waded through the shallows looking for tadpoles

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective shallow contrast with its synonyms?

The words cursory and superficial are common synonyms of shallow. While all three words mean "lacking in depth or solidity," shallow is more generally derogatory in implying lack of depth in knowledge, reasoning, emotions, or character.

a light, shallow, and frivolous review

In what contexts can cursory take the place of shallow?

While in some cases nearly identical to shallow, cursory suggests a lack of thoroughness or a neglect of details.

gave the letter only a cursory reading

When is it sensible to use superficial instead of shallow?

The synonyms superficial and shallow are sometimes interchangeable, but superficial implies a concern only with surface aspects or obvious features.

a superficial analysis of the problem

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 shallow
Adjective
These organisms can quickly reproduce, leading to dense blooms and surface scums, particularly in the shallow, warmer parts of the lake, according to the NPS. Joe Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 3 July 2025 The pool contains both deep and shallow sections, and its zero-entry aspect allows for a gradual decline walk into the water. Kansas City Star, 3 July 2025
Noun
While individuals will sometimes swim to the shallows, the squids gather en masse at observable depths during their mating event. Jules Jacobs, Smithsonian Magazine, 7 May 2025 Their population is also near freshwater and has been seen foraging in the shallows for food. Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 18 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for shallow
Recent Examples of Synonyms for shallow
Adjective
  • The aesthetic industry, once seen as superficial, is evolving into a crucial branch of the broader longevity movement.
    Lara Devgan, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Those families tend to be all alike, regardless of the superficial differences among them.
    Charles McNulty, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2025
Noun
  • Obviously, other nations would like to see that, and this is a perfect way to scuttle the USS America on the shoals of Iran.
    Zac Anderson, USA Today, 19 June 2025
  • Other nations would like to see that, and this is a perfect way to scuttle the U.S.S. America on the shoals of Iran.
    Ted Johnson, Deadline, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • This was the fourth restricted airspace violation of the day and not the last.
    Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2025
  • This is a difficult market for restricted free agents.
    Anthony Slater, New York Times, 4 July 2025
Noun
  • Richard Attias & Associates, named after its founder and chairman, is working with banks including Evercore to prepare for a share sale, Bloomberg reported.
    semafor.com, semafor.com, 9 July 2025
  • Five campers and one counselor remained missing as of July 8 and could potentially be entangled within the masses of tree branches and debris lining the banks.
    Rick Jervis, USA Today, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • This powder foundation from Laura Geller has a demi-matte finish that leaves your skin with a smooth, balanced, and natural look for everyday wear.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 8 July 2025
  • For detangling, expect the spray to work through knots so all that’s left are smooth strands that are much easier to style.
    Katie Decker-Jacoby, StyleCaster, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • With modern farming, and its use of pesticides and herbicides, surface microbial communities often suffer.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 21 June 2025
  • Storms are the most common cause of lightning, but lightning strikes have been observed in volcanic eruptions, surface nuclear detonations and during heavy snowstorms even.
    Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 2 Aug. 2024
Noun
  • Expert says constitution bars deporting U.S. citizens to serve out sentences.
    Ivan Pereira, ABC News, 1 July 2025
  • On Westerdam, every deck is accessible by elevator, and accessible staterooms have wide interior and exterior doorways; showers without thresholds; grab bars; and accessible seats and room controls.
    Susan B. Barnes, Travel + Leisure, 1 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Shallow.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/shallow. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

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