sleek 1 of 2

Definition of sleeknext

sleek

2 of 2

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

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 company’s sleek trailer is built on a proprietary skateboard chassis inspired by those that electric vehicles are built on, according to HiConsumption. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 20 Mar. 2026 March has a wide variety of loadouts, from sleek two-in-ones to rugged portables that'll take a licking and keep on ticking. K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 20 Mar. 2026
Verb
From supportive running sneakers to sleek pairs for lunch dates and travel, there’s a shoe for everyone in this sale. Nicol Natale, PEOPLE, 12 Dec. 2025 Over 200 dot the country’s Alpine landscape, from no-frills bivouac shelters to sleek, sci-fi-looking lodges. Lucy Kehoe, AFAR Media, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sleek
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sleek
Adjective
  • K-pop performers are often remarked for their polished choreography and technically impressive concerts.
    Mitchell McCluskey, CNN Money, 22 Mar. 2026
  • In the meantime, a polished proposal to a client can anchor your momentum and open a fresh path to success.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • In fact, Hadid recently revealed just how versatile the formula can be—slicking one of the scents through her hair to smooth back flyaways during her recent Vogue Beauty Secrets.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Ice accumulations may make roads slick, while lighter snow totals will still cause travel difficulties and drifting snow as winds pick up.
    Brandi D. Addison, USA Today, 15 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The coppery hue comes through as red in contrast with her eye color and glossy lips, outlined in a tan pencil.
    Marci Robin, Allure, 27 Mar. 2026
  • After that, paper media gets a lot glossier, and a lot more knowing.
    Laura Brown, Artforum, 25 Mar. 2026
Verb
  • Weeks later, the Queen tapped that relationship to smooth a diplomatic contretemps.
    Susan Page, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026
  • Instead of focusing on a single step, these formulas tend to combine exfoliation, hydration, brightening, and smoothing into one multipurpose formula.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The velvet number had glistening golden fringe on the skirt.
    Juliana Ukiomogbe, InStyle, 16 Mar. 2026
  • The former fake hotel is now full of glistening bronze pipes, a retro futurist look that former Imagineer Joe Rohde, who led the design, has said takes influence from the high-tech aesthetic of architect Renzo Piano, who worked on France’s Pompidou Centre.
    Todd Martens, Los Angeles Times, 11 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 29 Mar. 2026.

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