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sleek

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sleek differ from other similar words?

The words glossy and slick are common synonyms of sleek. While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning.

a sleek racehorse

In what contexts can glossy take the place of sleek?

The words glossy and sleek are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, glossy suggests a highly reflective surface.

photographs having a glossy finish

When might slick be a better fit than sleek?

Although the words slick and sleek have much in common, slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface.

slipped and fell on the slick floor

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 sleek
Adjective
This model has some sleek upgrades to the old-fashioned mason jar—the innovative flip-top lid with handle has an airtight silicone seal that keeps leaks and spills at bay. Carrie Honaker, Southern Living, 21 May 2025 Guests start outside on a heated patio with small bites before moving into a sleek dining room for a multi-course meal. Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 21 May 2025
Verb
The team works across a range of styles, from cozy and classic to sleek and modern, always keeping art and wellness at the heart of each interior to enhance the space and their client’s well-being. Dan Howarth, Architectural Digest, 25 Feb. 2025 Each home is a blank canvas, ready for new owners to add their personal touch, with designs that range from grand and stately to sleek and modern. Prime Development, Kansas City Star, 16 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sleek
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sleek
Adjective
  • Enter Wolf, who by all accounts is more polished offensively at 21 than Bassey and Biyombo (a good argument for Mamu, too).
    The Athletic NBA Staff, New York Times, 13 May 2025
  • The menu features polished but traditional Turkish dishes and the chef sources the best seafood and produce locally, keeping the selections seasonal.
    Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 13 May 2025
Verb
  • Ciara exposed the cornrows under her slicked back Met Gala pixie, and Tracee Ellis Ross dumped a week’s worth of beauty moments from her time in New York.
    India Espy-Jones, Essence, 12 May 2025
  • Richie Grainge brought the rockstar look to another level by slicking her short blonde hair back.
    Rachel Flynn, People.com, 6 May 2025
Adjective
  • Think glossy oak flooring, coffered ceilings, and custom millwork.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 17 May 2025
  • Jin pushes his signature style even further with Echo, his new 7-song EP, with emotional ballads and glossy rock moves that give him a chance to shine bright on his own, all open-hearted charm.
    Rob Sheffield, Rolling Stone, 16 May 2025
Verb
  • Team personnel filled the gap and smoothed it over to create a flat surface.
    Jeff Gluck, New York Times, 22 May 2025
  • But Ventura alleged that Combs was not in the mood to smooth things over.
    Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 22 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 25 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on sleek

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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