Definition of similaritynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word similarity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of similarity are analogy, likeness, resemblance, and similitude. While all these words mean "agreement or correspondence in details," likeness implies a closer correspondence than similarity which often implies that things are merely somewhat alike.

a remarkable likeness to his late father
some similarity between the two cases

When could analogy be used to replace similarity?

In some situations, the words analogy and similarity are roughly equivalent. However, analogy implies likeness or parallelism in relations rather than in appearance or qualities.

pointed out analogies to past wars

Where would resemblance be a reasonable alternative to similarity?

The words resemblance and similarity can be used in similar contexts, but resemblance implies similarity chiefly in appearance or external qualities.

statements that bear little resemblance to the truth

In what contexts can similitude take the place of similarity?

While in some cases nearly identical to similarity, similitude applies chiefly to correspondence between abstractions.

two schools of social thought showing points of similitude

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 similarity The name comes from one iteration of OpenClaw, which was at one point called Moltbot (and Clawdbot, until Anthropic came knocking out of concern over the similarity to its Claude AI products ). Kaitlyn Huamani, Los Angeles Times, 6 Feb. 2026 The similarities and differences could help scientists determine whether the raw materials for planets and potentially life are common throughout the Milky Way. Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 6 Feb. 2026 The Seahawks and New England Patriots, set to square off for the Lombardi Trophy on Super Bowl Sunday, have some similarities that go against the offensive-first grain. Joseph Hoyt, Dallas Morning News, 6 Feb. 2026 Authorities have not said if the two cases are connected in any way, but the cases do share some bizarre similarities. Louis Casiano , Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for similarity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for similarity
resemblance
Noun
  • From its immense wealth to the stability of its institutions, the United States bears little resemblance to Haiti.
    Dan Horn, Cincinnati Enquirer, 5 Feb. 2026
  • Lee’s home is nestled in the Bordeaux community, a traditionally African American neighborhood in northwest Nashville named for its resemblance to the southwestern French city.
    Felicia Feaster, AJC.com, 5 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Similarity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/similarity. Accessed 9 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on similarity

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