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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
The Apple Watch Series 10 presents a sleeker, comfortable upgrade thanks in part to a larger display that reads easily at a glance, so your messages and metrics pop without effort. PC Magazine, 4 Nov. 2025 This Public joins previous outposts in New York and Miami — a sleek, 137-key hideaway designed by Schrager in collaboration with British architect John Pawson. Seth Abramovitch, HollywoodReporter, 3 Nov. 2025
Verb
From storybook Southern estates to sleek West Coast escapes and Bahamian hideaways, the homes of her collection are covered in more detail below. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 Aug. 2025 The sale features a wide selection of men's fashion essentials, from timeless denim jackets perfect for cooler weather to sleek AllSaints wallets that add a touch of modern edge. Nora Colomer May Earn A Commission If You Buy Through Our Referral Links. This Content Was Created By A Team That Works Independently From The Fox Newsroom., FOXNews.com, 26 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sleek
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sleek
Adjective
  • This white alabaster, while far from a traditional menorah, offers the sort of sophistication that suits other polished holiday decorations perfectly.
    Rachel Fletcher, Architectural Digest, 11 Nov. 2025
  • Clark’s delivery was confident, polished and emotionally resonant — drawing clear comparisons to early-2000s country stars while asserting her place as a rising voice in the genre.
    Jessica Lynch, Billboard, 11 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • The Shea Moisture Define & Shine Edge Gel slicks my edges back without snatching them to hell.
    Kayla Greaves, Essence, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Christina wore a more masculine outfit, a beige suit, with her hair slicked back.
    James Marcus, New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Makeup artist Nina Park provided Sink with bold brows and a soft glossy lip to complete the look.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 7 Nov. 2025
  • The open-concept space includes a galley kitchen with a breakfast bar and glossy stone floors.
    Katie Schultz, Architectural Digest, 7 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Its style was in many ways a refinement of the final run of Diablos, smoothing and polishing the old car’s edges while adding strength and modernity to the design.
    Will Sabel Courtney, Robb Report, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Gradually shifting bedtime and wake-up time by 10 to 15 minutes over several nights can help smooth the transition and get everyone back on schedule.
    Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Udo Kier is the perverted master of ceremonies in this three-ring circus of deviancy from director Paul Morrissey, which takes Frankenstein’s romantic necrophilia and distills it to its glistening, taboo essence.
    Katie Rife, Vulture, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Delicate purple, white, or lavender-pink flowers are embedded among tiny, glistening leaves.
    Joshua Siskin, Oc Register, 8 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 21 Nov. 2025.

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