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Definition of smoothnext
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smooth

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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
The fabric has a clean and compact fabric structure, a super soft handle and a smooth surface. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 26 Jan. 2026 The European Rail Traffic Management System, now rolling out across the continent and beyond, gives them real-time target speeds, illustrations of braking curves and line status information many miles ahead, allowing for smoother, safer and more energy-efficient operations. Ben Jones, CNN Money, 26 Jan. 2026
Verb
Whether hair is bleached, color treated, or frequently heat styled, this formula aims to minimize breakage, reduce frizz, and smooth the appearance of split ends for a healthier-looking finish. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2026 Winston Churchill’s memoirs smoothed these memories over, and this still misleads us. Eliot A. Cohen, The Atlantic, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for smooth
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smooth
Adjective
  • However, in recent years, expanding through acquisitions has required more sophisticated thinking and execution.
    Amelia Lucas, CNBC, 31 Jan. 2026
  • From warm neutrals to deep earth tones, designers agree that countertops in 2026 will strike a delicate balance between sophisticated and unexpectedly playful.
    Cori Sears, The Spruce, 30 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • After Iribarne’s free throw, Beckman couldn’t knock down a 3, and Aliso allowed an easy bucket with five seconds left, then didn’t worry about putting the ball in play again.
    Martin Henderson, Oc Register, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Cohen suggests incorporating accent pieces—pillows, objects, and art—done in more vibrant tones that are easy to edit or remove over time.
    R. Daniel Foster, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Crandon Park Beach Key Biscayne, Florida A two-mile stretch of soft white sand in Key Biscayne, family-friendly Crandon Park Beach consistently earns praise for its beauty and calm waters thanks to an offshore sandbar.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Simple, Purposeful Spaces Warm minimalism creates calm, simple spaces by keeping a room clean and clutter-free.
    Erica Puisis, The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • When the compositions aren’t foiled, the chemicals break down the fabric even further, facilitating oxidation and the subsequent development of radiant green coats.
    Theo Belci, Artforum, 1 Feb. 2026
  • Alex Pavlak is a professional engineer, Severna Park resident and the chair of the Future of Energy Initiative, whose mission is to facilitate the development of sustainable, affordable, clean energy systems.
    Alex Pavlak, Baltimore Sun, 1 Feb. 2026
Verb
  • Eger’s blonde hair was shaved and her earrings were pulled off, leaving her ears bleeding.
    Linda Mcintosh, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Jan. 2026
  • But now, federal prosecutors say Hennen is the fixer behind the biggest point-shaving scandal in history, accused of bribing 39 college players, corrupting 17 programs and fixing — or trying fix — 29 games to enrich himself and other gamblers.
    Andy Sheehan, CBS News, 26 Jan. 2026
Verb
  • Our editors’ favorite work bags have earned their place in our daily rotations, designed with durability and style in mind, and polished enough to go wherever the day takes us.
    Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Its sleek vegan leather design looks polished enough for sightseeing days and casual dinners alike.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • September 23 – October 22 The stars currently favor graceful, honest dialogue.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 23 Jan. 2026
  • Even after so long, Camilla was still moved at the sight of her, so graceful and petite, with that thin, waif-like face.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In such a world, simple answers won’t do; only the courage to ask the hardest questions will push us forward.
    Daphne Koller, Big Think, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Knox, who committed to wrestle at Rutgers University, and his dad were initially charged with simple assault for purposely/knowingly causing bodily injury after a brawl broke out at Collingswood High School on February.
    Scott Thompson, FOXNews.com, 29 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Smooth.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smooth. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

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