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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
  • The aesthetic is defined by deep red and forest green tartans, warm lighting, elevated accents, and sophisticated dinnerware that evokes classic holiday charm with a polished Americana flair.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 4 Nov. 2025
  • For nearly 30 years, NB Design Group has excelled at crafting polished interiors that reveal a deep understanding of its clients.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Christina wore a more masculine outfit, a beige suit, with her hair slicked back.
    James Marcus, New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2025
  • The gory gag was a cheeky nod to Lloyd’s recent trend of ending his shows with his leading men nearly naked and slicked with stage blood.
    Dave Quinn, PEOPLE, 3 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • However, safety is the top concern among users in the Reddit thread, with many reporting that their glossy or ultra-smooth floors are incredibly slippery, especially when wet.
    Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 25 Oct. 2025
  • On Friday night, tennis superstar Serena Williams made a splash at the Princesa De Asturias awards ceremony, clad in a head-to-toe fiery red ensemble featuring glossy pumps.
    Kelsey Stewart, Footwear News, 25 Oct. 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
  • Filler shots of chauffeurs, champagne and colossal walk-in closets with pristine designer clobber glistening and gleaming from glass shelves centred around trays and trays of priceless jewels assault the viewer’s senses between almost every scene.
    Alejandra Gularte, Vulture, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Guests can dine at the on-site Beacon Restaurant, stroll the nearby boardwalk, or unwind by the fire pits as the sun seemingly dips into the glistening lake.
    Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 28 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 7 Nov. 2025.

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