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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word smooth different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of smooth are bland, diplomatic, politic, suave, and urbane. While all these words mean "pleasantly tactful and well-mannered," smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity.

a smooth salesman

When might bland be a better fit than smooth?

While in some cases nearly identical to smooth, bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities.

a bland master of ceremonies

In what contexts can diplomatic take the place of smooth?

The synonyms diplomatic and smooth are sometimes interchangeable, but diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully.

a diplomatic negotiator

Where would politic be a reasonable alternative to smooth?

In some situations, the words politic and smooth are roughly equivalent. However, politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people.

a cunningly politic manager

When can suave be used instead of smooth?

The words suave and smooth are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction.

a suave public relations coordinator

When would urbane be a good substitute for smooth?

The words urbane and smooth can be used in similar contexts, but urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience.

an urbane traveler

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 smooth
Adjective
Dorfman lends the whole an attractive look and smooth pace. Dennis Harvey, Variety, 7 Nov. 2025 BEMt is oil-soluble, giving it a smooth, non-chalky texture on the skin. Leslie Baumann, Miami Herald, 7 Nov. 2025
Verb
During a 2020 interview with DJ VLAD, Mack 10 rehashed the near-altercation with Common and reiterated that Fat Joe stepped in to smooth things over. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 31 Oct. 2025 Spanx Supersmooth Perfect Fit Ponte Micro Flare Pant Speaking of smoothing, these dress pants have compression from waist to knee and a subtle flare leg — like your favorite yoga pants but office appropriate. Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for smooth
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smooth
Adjective
  • China launches its largest naval aircraft carrier China’s largest and most sophisticated aircraft carrier entered active service, the latest sign of Beijing’s growing naval might.
    Brendan Ruberry, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025
  • When in doubt, cozy gifts are also a no-brainer option, from Olivia von Halle’s silky-and-sophisticated pajamas to the pricey yet worth-it Matteo Robe from Matouk.
    Footwear News, Footwear News, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Its low ride height makes for easy entry and exit, while a small footprint makes parking a breeze.
    Mark Phelan, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025
  • Doing so will also make organizing the fridge an easier task once you’re done.
    Mary Cornetta, Better Homes & Gardens, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • With over 20 years of experience, Melissa has helped families transform chaos into calm using compassion, clarity, and proven behavioral strategies.
    Maria Williams, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Peak season is over, meaning the crowds are gone, the water feels calmer, the restaurants are more enjoyable, and the sunsets last just a little bit longer.
    Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Ferdi Kadioglu is first-choice at left-back, and Brighton spent the first half trying to work rotations — Ayari was dropping between or beside the centre-backs to let Kadioglu push on, which facilitated left-winger Diego Gomez to move centrally and become an extra midfielder.
    Liam Tharme, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025
  • For instance, discuss historical moments kids studied at school to facilitate a deeper understanding.
    Melissa Willets, Parents, 10 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • Deeper cuts could be a 'stretch' Glendale has already asked residents to shave down their water use after shortages hit the Colorado River.
    Austin Corona, AZCentral.com, 6 Nov. 2025
  • And the only questions she's getting asked are about shaving her head.
    Patrick Ryan, USA Today, 6 Nov. 2025
Verb
  • But the majority of all diamonds – 90% – are cut and polished in India, which holds a towering tariff rate of 50%.
    Vanessa Yurkevich, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Prinbara Satin Maxi Skirt This satin maxi skirt is the definition of versatile—comfortable enough for all-day wear yet polished enough to anchor a night-out look.
    Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 8 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Characterized by graceful, winding arms that spiral out from a bright central bulge, these systems are rich with both young and old stars, swirling gas and cosmic dust.
    Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 4 Nov. 2025
  • After winning over America with his epic one-liners and graceful skates, Olympic figure skater Adam Rippon tackled the dance floor alongside partner Jenna Johnson.
    Diana Pearl, PEOPLE, 4 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • According to Bruce Blair, a former Air Force launch officer and nuclear policy expert, between 1962 and the mid-1970s the most powerful digits on the globe were simple – eight zeros.
    Charlotte Reck, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025
  • That something as simple as a COVID vaccine might improve survival in cancer patients receiving standard immunotherapy has taken oncologists by surprise — in a good way.
    Lisa Jarvis, Twin Cities, 8 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Smooth.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smooth. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025.

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