Synonyms of translucent

translucent

adjective

as in transparent

not easily seen through but allowing light to pass through

Frosted glass is translucent.

translucent gemstones

Related Words

• transparent
• liquid
• crystal
• sheer
• fragile
• lucid
• diaphanous
• gossamer
• clear
• gauzy
• see-through
• filmy
• delicate
• crystalline
• cobwebby
• limpid
• gauzelike
• lucent
• pellucid
• peekaboo
• flimsy
• colorless
• gossamery
• insubstantial
• dainty
• unsubstantial
• uncolored
• frail

Dissimilar Words

• opaque
• cloudy
• smoky
• hazy
• misty
• foggy
• nebulous
• murky
• dull
• drab
• lusterless
• lackluster

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

Recent Examples of translucent

One of the most striking uses of hair came in the form of Galliano’s last Margiela couture show, where models wore merkins underneath the translucent gowns. —Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 25 Oct. 2025

Apple recently launched an iPhone operating-system interface redesign called Liquid Glass that turns its icons translucent, further homogenizing their appearance. —Kyle Chayka, New Yorker, 22 Oct. 2025

Cook, stirring occasionally, until sprouts are crisp-tender and onions appear translucent, about 15 minutes. —Bethany Thayer, Freep.com, 18 Oct. 2025

Add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and sauté, stirring occasionally, until translucent, about 5 minutes. —Anastasia Tsioulcas, NPR, 15 Oct. 2025

Podcast

Get Word of the Day delivered to your inbox!