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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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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
Median condo sale price stayed flat at $275,000. Alexandra Phelps, Miami Herald, 18 June 2026 Our top hair straighteners under $100 This $30 straightener heats up in 30 seconds flat and delivers a shiny, frizz-free finish that holds all day without creasing, flyaways, or static. Alanna Martine Kilkeary, Glamour, 18 June 2026
Adverb
In other words, the fairly flat-looking AI creations may have gotten a boost from the generous lighting of a real art gallery. Stephanie Pappas, Scientific American, 14 May 2026 Raya remained active on his feet and fully connected to the play rather than becoming flat-footed or falling backwards as the ball travelled through the crowd. Matt Pyzdrowski, New York Times, 10 May 2026
Noun
Known for its flats and slides, Birdies even found favor from Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, who wore her black velvet Starlings on a two-day Disneyland trip with husband Prince Harry and their two kids to celebrate daughter Lilibet’s fourth birthday in June 2025. Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 17 June 2026 Easily style these pants with sneakers, ballet flats, sandals, or loafers. Caroline Hughes, Travel + Leisure, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • By leveraging exact data and diagnostics, organizations can pinpoint exactly where their culture is fracturing—frequently among Black women, employees with disabilities, and LGBTQ+ professionals.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 14 June 2026
  • The Generic 2-Story Prefab Restaurant is listed as a shipping container restaurant, but since the structure is fully customizable to your exact specifications, the only limits to its uses are your own imagination.
    Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 14 June 2026
Adjective
  • Sometimes safe and boring can be a winning strategy.
    Nina Bambysheva, Forbes.com, 18 June 2026
  • The cause can be something as simple as a lack of water or more complex, like fungal wilt diseases, tomato wilt viruses, walnut toxicity, or boring insects.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 17 June 2026
Adjective
  • But the contact needs to be smooth to help with the disguise aspect.
    Stuart James, New York Times, 16 June 2026
  • The smooth leather exterior truly gives it the appearance of a custom desk accessory.
    Jaha Nailah Avery, Architectural Digest, 15 June 2026
Adjective
  • One of the individuals was listed in temporary serious condition on Sunday, while the other was in stable condition.
    Nick Lentz, CBS News, 15 June 2026
  • At a time when fossil fuel markets are driving price volatility and burdening families with higher utility bills, wind energy offers a stable, domestic source of power that is not subject to the unpredictable swings of gas prices.
    Julianna Larue, Hartford Courant, 14 June 2026
Adjective
  • Armando Chavez, owner of local business NorCal Siders, was brought in for a simple roof patch-up but left with a big idea.
    Kayla Moeller, CBS News, 18 June 2026
  • The cause can be something as simple as a lack of water or more complex, like fungal wilt diseases, tomato wilt viruses, walnut toxicity, or boring insects.
    Mary Marlowe Leverette, The Spruce, 17 June 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
  • In addition, the vehicle chases feel a little too much on rails and bland.
    Gieson Cacho, Mercury News, 17 June 2026
  • Because squash is already about 95% water, cooking it in water turns its mild sweetness bland.
    Kelly Brant, Arkansas Online, 16 June 2026
Adjective
  • Specifically saying these white, thin, traditionally feminine bodies are not just aspirational but symbols of morality, tradition, purity.
    Ryan Coleman, Entertainment Weekly, 15 June 2026
  • This game isn't in Las Vegas, this is in Sacramento, so the thin air that carried the ball out of the park the past few days is not a factor.
    David Troy OutKick, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

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