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

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
Back inside, a casual dining area connects to a sleek kitchen outfitted with Jerusalem limestone floors, Brazilian granite countertops, a breakfast bar, and a walk-in pantry. Wendy Bowman, Robb Report, 14 Feb. 2026 Her over-the-knee boots featured a soft, slouchy silhouette and a sleek, pointed toe, subtly elongating her frame. Kelsey Stewart, Footwear News, 13 Feb. 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
  • Designed to fall just above the ankle, the wide-leg pair looks great with dainty flats and polished loafers.
    Cheryl Wagemann, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
  • But what looks convincing in a quick DIY video can feel far less polished in real life—especially in bright, everyday spaces where imperfections are hard to hide.
    Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 15 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Her hair was slicked back, and her makeup was dewy and glossy with a deep nude lip.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Monica Monica tapped Ricky Wing to slick her hair in a high ponytail and trim micro bangs just above her brows.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Holly is low maintenance, fast growing and has sharp, dark, glossy leaves with red berries.
    Clarence Schmidt, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Feb. 2026
  • As for glam, Berry’s makeup was clean and serene, with bold brows, smokey eyes and a slightly glossy lip.
    Julia Teti, Footwear News, 11 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Appealing Venus is parading into your 6th House of Habits, bringing sweetness to routines and smoothing dynamics, which suits a diplomatic style of handling events.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 10 Feb. 2026
  • To smooth the transition, start making changes earlier in the day, Popp suggested.
    Jamie Ducharme, Health, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The spaces get smaller and smaller as the shark approaches, radiating a sense of that closing distance until the string stabs cut into the listener like so many glistening teeth.
    Alex Galbraith, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Feb. 2026
  • Below-zero temperatures have beauty insiders daydreaming about being under the tropical sun; their faces bronzed, their hair sandy, and their nails glistening like the ocean.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 13 Feb. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Sleek.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sleek. Accessed 17 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on sleek

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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