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Definition of flatnext
1
as in exact
being neither more nor less than a certain amount, number, or extent industrial growth has been a flat two percent for each of the last four quarters

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in boring
causing weariness, restlessness, or lack of interest a flat portrayal of Benjamin Franklin in the new TV series

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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flat

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adverb

flat

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noun

chiefly British

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective flat contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of flat are even, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

When would even be a good substitute for flat?

In some situations, the words even and flat are roughly equivalent. However, even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight.

trim the hedge so it is even

When is it sensible to use level instead of flat?

The words level and flat can be used in similar contexts, but level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

Where would plane be a reasonable alternative to flat?

While in some cases nearly identical to flat, plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface.

the plane sides of a crystal

When is smooth a more appropriate choice than flat?

The words smooth and flat are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

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 flat
Adjective
After two decades of flat consumption, electricity demand in advanced economies is rising sharply, driven by data centers, electrification and industrial reshoring. Elena Bou, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 Kohl's reaffirmed its full-year outlook, expecting net sales and comparable sales to be in a range of down 2% to flat. Laya Neelakandan, CNBC, 28 May 2026
Adverb
Built from corrugated cardboard with a water-resistant coating, the drone is lightweight, inexpensive, and can be shipped flat-packed for rapid assembly in about five minutes. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 29 Apr. 2026 Spanning more than 4,000 square feet, the flat-roofed, single-story house is designed to frame its countryside setting, with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors opening onto terraces and wide rural views. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
Add an understated top with flats and a modern blazer for the office, or opt for a sleeveless blouse and slingback heels for a perfectly polished finish. Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 27 May 2026 Stocks also jumped after the report, with the S&P 500 and Nasdaq entering positive territory and the Dow flat. Sarah Min,lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 27 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • The exact reason why is debated by scientists, but theories include a huge collision in early Martian history, or unstable mantle plumes.
    Tom Brown, Space.com, 25 May 2026
  • The rooms Each stand-alone A-frame tent is structured and designed the exact same—the only difference between the rooms is the view.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 May 2026
Adjective
  • If your summer wardrobe is feeling a bit boring or outdated, don’t fret — Amazon just added tons of new styles to its sale section, and my top picks are all going for $10 or less.
    Emily Weaver, PEOPLE, 29 May 2026
  • Finally, the institution must be financially boring.
    Christos Korgan, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Much of that discussion still assumes people become stable immediately after leaving addiction treatment programs.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 24 May 2026
  • The Sunshine State is a glowing example of fiscal responsibility with a reputation for keeping taxes low and the budget balanced, securing a stable long-term future.
    Nicole Huyer, The Orlando Sentinel, 24 May 2026
Adjective
  • In 2015, Lynette was arrested on charges of assault and battery/simple assault.
    Marlene Lenthang, NBC news, 28 May 2026
  • When Stagg’s calculations lead him to conclude that an almighty storm is set to break on June 5, 1944 — the day originally earmarked for the Normandy landings — after a long period of balmy calm, potentially scuppering the entire vast project, his simple but urgent advice is to wait a day.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 27 May 2026
Adjective
  • Its 85-inch QLED display features a highly matte anti-glare screen, so your art and movies look lifelike without annoying reflections.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The long-wearing formula sets to a semi-matte finish that resists oil and humidity, too.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 26 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • And like Bargatze, The Breadwinner is relatable, inoffensive and also thoroughly bland.
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 27 May 2026
  • The only real drawback is that some rooms face bland rooftop views.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 May 2026
Adjective
  • Mars, however, lost most of its global magnetic field billions of years ago and today possesses only a much weaker, patchier magnetic environment formed when the solar wind interacts directly with the planet’s thin upper atmosphere.
    Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 26 May 2026
  • Infused with biotin, rosemary, and peppermint oil, this ultra-popular Mielle Organics shampoo strengthens thin, brittle strands.
    Isabel Bekele, InStyle, 26 May 2026
Adverb
  • Then stir or shake the solution until the sugar is completely dissolved.
    Rita Pelczar, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 May 2026
  • Teams are completely shutting down the middle of the field.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 30 May. 2026.

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