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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

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
But Higgins does not have a vote on the five-member City Commission, and her efforts to shorten her term fell flat. Miami Herald, 14 May 2026 The Reva flat was such an iconic shoe in the 2000s. Viv Chen, Los Angeles Times, 14 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
Dress them up with a blouse and flats for office days, or go off-duty with a graphic tee and blazer for a cool, casual airport look. Rosie Marder, Travel + Leisure, 13 May 2026 Style a pair of black capris with a funnel neck jacket and heeled thong sandals à la Kendall Jenner, or go for a capri legging with flats. ABC News, 13 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for flat
Recent Examples of Synonyms for flat
Adjective
  • Our food director Chris Morocco is spectacular at this exact category.
    Emma Laperruque, Bon Appetit Magazine, 18 May 2026
  • However, the exact price can also depend on your age, location, and the length of your loan.
    Liz Knueven, CNBC, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • Moreover, the subject is weedy and boring.
    George Skelton, Mercury News, 14 May 2026
  • In comic book canon, Clark's earlier years are actually pretty boring!
    Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 13 May 2026
Adjective
  • Composers from more stable lands nursed their own fears.
    Alex Ross, New Yorker, 18 May 2026
  • One victim suffered critical injuries but was in stable condition, while three others sustained non-life-threatening wounds.
    Greg Wehner, FOXNews.com, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • While the simple Deluxe Room is ideal for a quick overnight trip, guests looking for a longer stay should spread out in the Junior Suite with Living & Dining Area, which opens onto a semi-private stone patio with a bocce court and a firepit in the warmer months.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026
  • Huxley might easily have written a simpler novel glorifying intellectuals while mocking Stoyte’s greed and indifference to suffering.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 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
  • Although delightfully sweet and fragrant when fresh, baked strawberries have a tendency to become watery and bland.
    The New York Times News Service Syndicate, San Diego Union-Tribune, 20 May 2026
  • Unlike Mario's revolutionary outing on the N64 with Mario 64, Yoshi's turn on that system was underwhelming at best, with unfocused and bland platforming.
    Will Greenwald, PC Magazine, 19 May 2026
Adjective
  • Health experts are growing increasingly alarmed about the outbreak, arguing that cases have been spreading undetected as public health authorities are stretched thin.
    Lauren Weber, Washington Post, 18 May 2026
  • Few of the film’s ideas truly connect with one another, leaving its lead stars adrift in the process, forcing them to conjure three dimensional details from a script that, intentionally or otherwise, feels paper thin.
    Siddhant Adlakha, IndieWire, 18 May 2026
Adverb
  • Alexander pinned Slater for the win, completely shocking the fans in Sacramento, California.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 15 May 2026
  • An unknown vehicle driving west on Independence Ave then struck the bicycle, ejecting its rider completely off the bike, the crash log said.
    Kendrick Calfee, Kansas City Star, 14 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Flat.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/flat. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

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