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 The glass is reeded and translucent, obscuring the line cooks behind it. Alexis Benveniste, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2026 The partially translucent roof and façade allows spectators to see the elements without actually being subject to them. Jim Reineking, USA Today, 27 Aug. 2026 Raelynn’s parents — Aubree Winnekens and Aaron Kubiske — shared that their daughter’s eyes were sealed shut and her skin was translucent when she was born. Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026 Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for translucent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for translucent
Adjective
  • In the funding requests, law enforcement agencies were transparent about their intent for the license plate readers.
    Ana Goñi-Lessan, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2026
  • Because of perverse incentives, a system intended to make information about the present and knowledge about the future more transparent has made the world more opaque and volatile.
    Finn Brunton, Harpers Magazine, 1 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • This study was done at temperatures so low that even helium turns liquid.
    Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 5 Sep. 2026
  • After expansion, 5 °C (41 °F) deep seawater cools the ammonia in a condenser, and a pump returns the liquid ammonia.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 4 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • O’Connor’s face filled the screen, her crystal-blue eyes piercing me in my own living room.
    Jayson Greene, Pitchfork, 25 July 2026
  • Beside the dessert sat a crystal coupe overflowing with Caramelized Shallot Dip from Every Leaf, Every Stem.
    Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Translucent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/translucent. Accessed 10 Sep. 2026.

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