SLEEK Synonyms: 70 Similar and Opposite Words

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

The words glossy and slick are common synonyms of sleek . While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning. // a sleek racehorse

Q: In what contexts can 'glossy' take the place of 'sleek'?

The words glossy and sleek are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, glossy suggests a highly reflective surface. // photographs having a glossy finish

Q: When might 'slick' be a better fit than 'sleek'?

Although the words slick and sleek have much in common, slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface. // slipped and fell on the slick floor

sleek 1 of 2

adjective

Definition of sleek next

as in polished

having a shiny surface or finish a striking beauty with sleek raven hair

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

sleek

2 of 2

verb

as in to slick

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective sleek differ from other similar words?

The words glossy and slick are common synonyms of sleek. While all three words mean "having a smooth bright surface or appearance," sleek suggests a smoothness or brightness resulting from attentive grooming or physical conditioning.

a sleek racehorse

In what contexts can glossy take the place of sleek?

The words glossy and sleek are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, glossy suggests a highly reflective surface.

photographs having a glossy finish

When might slick be a better fit than sleek?

Although the words slick and sleek have much in common, slick suggests extreme smoothness that results in a slippery surface.

slipped and fell on the slick floor

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 sleek

Adjective

Sanchez also made head turns with her signature smoky eye, glossy nude lips and a sleek updo. —

Stephanie Nolasco, Fox News, 20 Jan. 2025 EssilorLuxottica’s Nuance Audio smart glasses combine discreet hearing support with sleek, stylish eyewear. —

Bill Schiffmiller, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025

Verb

From small space ingenuity to sleek modernism, these stunning spots are sure to spark some ideas for your next remodel. —

Alyssa Wolfe, Architectural Digest, 13 Dec. 2024 Amazon is the house-buying hack hardly anyone knows about, listing everything from Pinterest-worthy A-frame cabins to sleek, stackable shipping container houses. —

Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 30 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for sleek

Recent Examples of Synonyms for sleek

Adjective

This open-front long-sleeve cardigan is a reliable layering asset for a low-lift polished look.

— Ali Faccenda, People.com, 24 Jan. 2025
Some of those who have previously advanced Trump’s interests in Europe now see Musk as an unfettered, even less polished version of the president; an agitator whose style and ambition has come to mirror Trump’s.

— Rob Picheta, CNN, 23 Jan. 2025