translucent

Definition of translucentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective translucent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of translucent are clear, limpid, and transparent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

When would clear be a good substitute for translucent?

The meanings of clear and translucent largely overlap; however, clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When might limpid be a better fit than translucent?

In some situations, the words limpid and translucent are roughly equivalent. However, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

When is it sensible to use transparent instead of translucent?

The synonyms transparent and translucent are sometimes interchangeable, but transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

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 translucent How To Remove Oil Spots Oils can stain frosted glass and leave very obvious translucent spots. Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 28 Feb. 2026 In the ones my kids own, translucent plastic pieces tumble into new designs as the barrel rotates, creating patterns that, after periods of hesitation, click into place. Joshua Rothman, New Yorker, 24 Feb. 2026 Using clear or translucent plastic, solarization creates an oven effect that cooks plants with intense heat. Michelle Mastro, The Spruce, 22 Feb. 2026 Their translucent bodies suggest adaptation to a subterranean environment where light doesn’t reach. Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 20 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for translucent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for translucent
Adjective
  • Broward County taxpayers deserve a clear and transparent explanation regarding commissions collected by the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office on school district property.
    Abbey Ajayi, Sun Sentinel, 10 Mar. 2026
  • To keep this look wearable, Briceno recommends, keep the color somewhat transparent.
    Loren Savini, Allure, 10 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Flavor Bourbon Combine 2 cups bourbon and ¼ cup liquid bacon fat in a sealable, freezer-safe container.
    Josh Miller, Southern Living, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Water is replaced with liquid sodium coolant, which melts at around 1,616 °F (880 °C) and is transparent to neutrons.
    David Szondy March 08, New Atlas, 8 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The post, with a photo of a beaming Rauber in front of crystal blue water, spoke of a family vacation in Maui with Rauber dancing at a luau.
    Eric Adler, Kansas City Star, 26 Jan. 2026
  • In contrast to the crystal nature of the diamond, this layer is disordered and behaves more like a liquid than a solid.
    Paulina Rowińska, Wired News, 25 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Translucent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/translucent. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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