GLOSSY Synonyms: 35 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How does the adjective 'glossy' differ from other similar words?

The words sleek and slick are common synonyms of glossy . While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," glossy suggests a highly reflective surface. // photographs having a glossy finish

Q: When could 'sleek' be used to replace 'glossy'?

The synonyms sleek and glossy are sometimes interchangeable, but sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning. // a sleek racehorse

Q: When can 'slick' be used instead of 'glossy'?

The words slick and glossy can be used in similar contexts, but slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface. // slipped and fell on the slick floor

glossy

adjective

ˈglä-sē

Definition of glossy next

as in polished

having a shiny surface or finish the glossy finish on the gym floor a sports car with an interior upholstered with glossy leather

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective glossy differ from other similar words?

The words sleek and slick are common synonyms of glossy. While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," glossy suggests a highly reflective surface.

photographs having a glossy finish

When could sleek be used to replace glossy?

The synonyms sleek and glossy are sometimes interchangeable, but sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning.

a sleek racehorse

When can slick be used instead of glossy?

The words slick and glossy can be used in similar contexts, but slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface.

slipped and fell on the slick floor

Examples 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 glossy This challah crown is studded with bits of tart apple and is flavored with citrusy coriander, which complements the glossy honey-orange glaze that gets brushed on the loaf after baking. —

Jason Mastrodonato, The Mercury News, 16 Dec. 2024 Her makeup look featured flushed cheeks and a glossy mauve lip. —

Catherine Santino, People.com, 11 Dec. 2024 Martin kept it simple with fluttery lashes, soft pink blush and a pink glossy lip. —

Catherine Santino, People.com, 5 Dec. 2024 For her glam, Meghan opted to forgo fuss — her makeup featured a clean look with a glossy lip and bold brow and her hair was pulled back with a few wisps to frame her face. —

Julia Teti, WWD, 5 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for glossy

Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy

Adjective

Of course, her mani of the moment (which had now transformed into her engagement mani) was on full display in all of the happy photos: short, subtly polished nails.

Margaux Anbouba, Vogue, 12 Dec. 2024
The following week, an employee might join to discuss how to look polished without trying too hard for a PTA meeting.

Julian Randall, Essence, 11 Dec. 2024