translucent

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective translucent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of translucent are clear, limpid, and transparent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

When would clear be a good substitute for translucent?

The meanings of clear and translucent largely overlap; however, clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When might limpid be a better fit than translucent?

In some situations, the words limpid and translucent are roughly equivalent. However, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

When is it sensible to use transparent instead of translucent?

The synonyms transparent and translucent are sometimes interchangeable, but transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

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 translucent The use likely arose from the resemblance of the shiny, translucent surface of early sugar glazes to a layer of ice. Erik Kain, Forbes, 20 Jan. 2025 Their approach to the problem was to ditch the meshes and instead capture 3D objects as a collection of fuzzy, translucent blobs, also known as Gaussians. Janko Roettgers, The Verge, 19 Jan. 2025 Window insulation heat-shrinks to your window to create a translucent, insulating barrier that can be removed in the warmer months. Rabekah Henderson, Southern Living, 11 Jan. 2025 The actress wore a necklace with translucent beads, along with stacks of bracelets, several small earrings and a few glittering rings. Julia Teti, WWD, 10 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for translucent 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for translucent
Adjective
  • The conversation around money is undergoing a radical transformation, with many now demanding more transparent discussions about finances, recognizing that economic wellness is intrinsically linked to mental and physical health.
    Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 24 Jan. 2025
  • This combination of financial advantages and a transparent, investor-friendly system makes the UAE’s Golden Visa program particularly attractive.
    Arash Jalili, Forbes, 24 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Bicoastal makeup artist Amrita Mehta counts this liquid shadow among her favorites for its dependability.
    Annie Blackman, Allure, 28 Jan. 2025
  • In the kitchen, the chefs are seen pouring liquid nitrogen, tying dumplings and setting food aflame.
    Sabrina Weiss, People.com, 28 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • The options on the test SUV are: the crystal metallic paint for $595, the trailer hitch and wiring harness for $615, the wheel locks for $75, the premium carpet set for $350, and the destination set for $625.
    Tony Leopardo, The Mercury News, 19 Jan. 2025
  • The crystal New Year’s Eve Ball, meanwhile, was introduced in 1999 to welcome the new millennium.
    Saman Shafiq, USA TODAY, 31 Dec. 2024

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Thesaurus Entries Near translucent

Cite this Entry

“Translucent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/translucent. Accessed 1 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on translucent

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