Definition of transparentnext
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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective transparent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of transparent are clear, limpid, and translucent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

When is it sensible to use clear instead of transparent?

The words clear and transparent can be used in similar contexts, but clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When can limpid be used instead of transparent?

The words limpid and transparent are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Where would translucent be a reasonable alternative to transparent?

The meanings of translucent and transparent largely overlap; however, translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

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 transparent Newspaper endorsements in elections have a long history of helping readers vet candidates in a thoughtful and transparent way. The Denver Post Editorial Board, Denver Post, 1 June 2026 The first is a transparent, non-foaming gel that's a must-have for a smarter shave. Jackie Fields, PEOPLE, 1 June 2026 Surrounded by trees and mountain landscapes, the transparent structure delivers the atmosphere of an outdoor wedding while sidestepping many of the logistical headaches that come with weather-dependent venues. Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 31 May 2026 Vergara, a community engagement director, said her priorities include public safety, support for small businesses, youth and family programs, and transparent local government. Teresa Liu, Daily News, 29 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • Teigen shared several photos from the trip on Instagram, including one picture of Legend holding their two oldest kids, Luna and Miles, in the crystal blue pool.
    Joyann Jeffrey, PEOPLE, 28 May 2026
  • His newest product is a crystal orb that accommodates cigars up to a 74-ring gauge.
    Justin Fenner, Robb Report, 15 May 2026
Adjective
  • Investigating active government officials in Mexico is a new strategy for the United States, which in the past refrained from targeting sitting leaders in allied countries with criminal investigations because of the clear political ramifications.
    Kate Linthicum, Los Angeles Times, 4 June 2026
  • What Schwartz made clear is that once Cleveland chose Monken, his own decision was already made.
    Alejandro Avila OutKick, FOXNews.com, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • But moving Cale just to stay in that neighborhood would be sheer Looney Tunes.
    Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
  • The NikeCourt dress features a black, lightweight semi-sheer dress layered over a crimson tank and is currently sold out.
    Merlisa Lawrence Corbett, Forbes.com, 30 May 2026
Adjective
  • Those eggs are then put onto tiny straws and plunged into liquid nitrogen.
    Will Croxton, CBS News, 31 May 2026
  • The natural oils are then mixed with either potassium hydroxide to create a liquid soap or sodium hydroxide to create a solid soap.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • The dial is then carefully domed and given a galvanic coat of gold, before translucent purple lacquer is applied by hand and fired in a kiln.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 31 May 2026
  • In a year, LiPfe explants rebuilt themselves into alien-like translucent orbs with a large red cellular mass at their core.
    Jacek Krywko, ArsTechnica, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • His cheddar is hard to miss—beautiful clothbound truckles, a distinctive rind, a nutty, rich taste, and slightly crystalline texture.
    Olivia Potts, Longreads, 28 May 2026
  • But trying to get something smoky and wild like mezcal to fit into the clean, crystalline purity of a Martini seemed, at first, insane.
    Jeremy Repanich, Robb Report, 23 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

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