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 Throughout the clip, Bebe can be seen sitting calmly inside the transparent enclosure, seemingly taking in the underwater scenery rather than panicking or fluttering. Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 13 Apr. 2026 This is non-serious lawmaking — a transparent virtue-signal rather than an effort at problem-solving. Steven Greenhut, Oc Register, 12 Apr. 2026 Whether crocheted with the express intention of being worn on a beach, cut as a minimalist column, or fashioned into something altogether more attention-seeking–semi-transparent, or indeed extremely transparent–these are the five maxi dresses worth investing in as the mercury begins to creep up. Chloé Versabeau, Vogue, 12 Apr. 2026 The platform notably shows transparent, upfront pricing, with no soft quotes or hidden fees. Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for transparent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for transparent
Adjective
  • My bridal shower will be taking place at a historic inn, on a crystal blue Finger Lake in Upstate New York, at the end of April.
    Alexandra Ditch, Vogue, 8 Mar. 2026
  • Cowbells are ringing out, the stands are full, and the sun is shining under a crystal blue sky.
    Sean Nevin, NBC news, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But there seems to be a clear increase in the number of ticks out there.
    ABC News, ABC News, 16 Apr. 2026
  • Share a clear plan, and invite real input.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 16 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Lahav black ballgown with sheer black veil and beaded appliqués throughout.
    Alex Apatoff, PEOPLE, 11 Apr. 2026
  • And the sheer scale is unprecedented.
    ABC News, ABC News, 11 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Tips for Storing Laundry Detergent To ensure your liquid laundry detergent lasts as long as possible, store it in a temperature-stable, cool, dry environment for best results.
    Melissa Locker, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Such supplementation is available in pill, powder or liquid form and as an energy bar.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 12 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Jelly tends to be sweeter and more gel-like than jam, with a translucent finish that shows off the fruit's natural color.
    Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 9 Apr. 2026
  • Stone elements are rarely seen in small spaces, but the bathroom sinks are made of a translucent variety.
    Annabelle Dufraigne, Architectural Digest, 7 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The first of these—a cult favorite among writers, particularly youngish women writers—put Lemann on the map as a singular stylist, capable of crystalline insights into the miscreants and oddballs of the American South and great bursts of unrestrained sentiment.
    Brandy Jensen, New Yorker, 8 Apr. 2026
  • The team found that small differences in how atoms are arranged in a crystalline lattice can strongly affect superconductivity.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 5 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Transparent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/transparent. Accessed 17 Apr. 2026.

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