SLIPPERY Synonyms: 121 Similar and Opposite Words

slippery

adjective

ˈsli-p(ə-)rē

as in shady

given to acting in secret and to concealing one's intentions a bar where a lot of slippery characters were known to hang out

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in elusive

hard to find, capture, or isolate a slippery concept that we had trouble understanding

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in slicked

having or being a surface so smooth as to greatly reduce traction had trouble keeping upright on the slippery ice

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 slippery Until that point, the focus was on making a car as slippery as possible; less drag meant more top speed on the straights. —

Jonathan M. Gitlin, ArsTechnica, 30 Apr. 2026 Degrees of estrangement are common in dysfunctional families, and this book depicts their slippery, progressive nature. —

Literary Hub, 28 Apr. 2026 On Tuesday, crews will check on Indian Creek Trail and any mud deposits — which can be very slippery for equipment to drive on. —

Taylor O'Connor, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 2026 When playing on a court, dirt, sweat and grime can cause the bottom of an athlete’s shoe to become slippery, and dangerous. —

Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for slippery

Recent Examples of Synonyms for slippery

Adjective

Bush violet thrives in shady conditions of the porch, producing an abundance of bright purple blooms throughout the growing season.

— Kim Toscano, Southern Living, 4 May 2026
As long as there’s plenty of clearance for fire safety measures, the tree’s branches can provide a shady spot for gathering while the sun is still high in the sky.

— Marisa Donnelly, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 May 2026