Definition of glossynext

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

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 glossy Too much architecture — too many foyers, signs, cafés, screens, glossy surfaces, bright colors, and walls — could ruin the raw, funky feel of the place. Justin Davidson, Curbed, 10 Feb. 2026 The star of the show at both is the steak trompo, in which strip and sirloin steaks are skewered on a glossy vertical spit, sliced thinly to order onto a supple corn tortilla with avocado salsa. Andrea Strong, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 Feb. 2026 For the Marc Jacobs show, which is always an NYFW standout, Fox channeled an enchanted doll come to life with a head full of thick, glossy, bouncy curls and lavender-gray makeup to mimic the color of her sheer catsuit and satin bra top. Kara Nesvig, Allure, 10 Feb. 2026 Outside, along the promenade, emerging-market governments—from India to Nigeria—clamored to have their voices heard, taking over storefronts with glossy displays and bigger-than-life branding. Justin Worland, Time, 10 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for glossy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy
Adjective
  • Designed to fall just above the ankle, the wide-leg pair looks great with dainty flats and polished loafers.
    Cheryl Wagemann, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
  • But what looks convincing in a quick DIY video can feel far less polished in real life—especially in bright, everyday spaces where imperfections are hard to hide.
    Angelika Pokovba, Martha Stewart, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Think stylish airport outfits, sleek carry-ons, smart tech, and practical travel accessories all seriously marked down for the holiday weekend.
    Chaise Sanders, Travel + Leisure, 15 Feb. 2026
  • This sleek, inventive shoulder bag is well under $100 but looks way pricier.
    Annie Blackman, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Bag a table outside to fully soak up the glistening ocean panorama, interrupted only by the occasional strutting peacock.
    Harriet Compston, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 Feb. 2026
  • Before the 1945 season, there was a cartoon of him in the paper—Big Number 7 of the Rams—and there was his face, clean and glistening, under wavy hair and wearing a perfect smile.
    CBS News, CBS News, 8 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Pop a satin version on top of your usual night-out curls to make the 'do feel glamorous.
    Jasmine Washington, Seventeen, 18 Jan. 2023
  • From satin pillowcases to a hydrating moisturizer, all of these products are on sale for less than $25.
    Isabel Garcia, Peoplemag, 13 Jan. 2023

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Cite this Entry

“Glossy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glossy. Accessed 16 Feb. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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