Definition of urbanenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word urbane different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of urbane are bland, diplomatic, politic, smooth, and suave. While all these words mean "pleasantly tactful and well-mannered," urbane implies high cultivation and poise coming from wide social experience.

an urbane traveler

When could bland be used to replace urbane?

In some situations, the words bland and urbane are roughly equivalent. However, bland emphasizes mildness of manner and absence of irritating qualities.

a bland master of ceremonies

When might diplomatic be a better fit than urbane?

The synonyms diplomatic and urbane are sometimes interchangeable, but diplomatic stresses an ability to deal with ticklish situations tactfully.

a diplomatic negotiator

When is politic a more appropriate choice than urbane?

While in some cases nearly identical to urbane, politic implies shrewd as well as tactful and suave handling of people.

a cunningly politic manager

Where would smooth be a reasonable alternative to urbane?

While the synonyms smooth and urbane are close in meaning, smooth suggests often a deliberately assumed suavity.

a smooth salesman

When can suave be used instead of urbane?

Although the words suave and urbane have much in common, suave suggests a specific ability to deal with others easily and without friction.

a suave public relations coordinator

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 urbane There's been a reappraisal of nostalgic American folk decor as of late by young, urbane tastemakers, but the look never really went away. Wilder Davies, Bon Appetit Magazine, 25 Nov. 2025 Her debut novel follows Davis, a young Black gay violinist who was raised by a devout Christian father in Ohio, who has since fled the Midwest for an urbane gay life in New York City, complete with a wedding to the love of his life, Everett. Ana Osorno, Them., 21 Nov. 2025 The mood was comfortably urbane, with edge. Alexandra Schwartz, New Yorker, 20 Oct. 2025 The results are attracting a 20- and 30-something set looking for an edgier, more urbane South Florida. Hannah Seligson, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for urbane
Recent Examples of Synonyms for urbane
Adjective
  • Wine bar Counter Reformation is one of town’s top spots for a pour and sophisticated small plates.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Feb. 2026
  • While the weight and material of the set is noteworthy, the beautiful matelassé-style pattern—complete with floral motifs and geometric designs—adds a sophisticated touch to any space.
    Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 20 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Both expect their rivalry to stay civilized.
    Pien Huang, NPR, 17 Feb. 2026
  • And that was the one that ended up being a really civilized breakup.
    Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 12 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The 18-year-old wowed with a graceful performance that included beautiful extensions and spins.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 17 Feb. 2026
  • This dwarf variety produces slender, upright branches that, if left unpruned, put forth a graceful weeping habit.
    SJ McShane, Martha Stewart, 16 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Rutler looked suave in a classic white T-shirt layered under a white jacket and paired with black pants.
    Christina Perrier, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
  • My own parents met coming out of a movie theater in New Britain when my less than suave Coast Guard father pestered my mother for a date.
    Jody Mamone, Hartford Courant, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • To her credit, Shiffrin was gracious in defeat.
    Dana O’Neil, CNN Money, 10 Feb. 2026
  • Shiffrin was predictably gracious in defeat — as rare as those defeats are.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • This recipe stars spaghetti and brings together four types of cheeses (including ricotta) for an extra hearty, creamy, and smooth supper.
    Nellah Bailey McGough, Southern Living, 16 Feb. 2026
  • Activate your wristband for smooth entry and unlock extra safety features, such as adding an emergency contact.
    Ed Masley, AZCentral.com, 16 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Urbane.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/urbane. Accessed 21 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on urbane

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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