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 Her glossy, brunette hair has been pulled up sleekly and gathered high on her head. Marci Robin, Allure, 17 Apr. 2025 Jenner's hair now officially falls into the category of a pixie bob — the look sees her glossy black strands cut into forehead-sweeping bangs. Starr Bowenbank, People.com, 17 Apr. 2025 Characterized by sheer white tones with a glossy finish, the milky nail look supplies a more natural look. Taylor Anderson, Vogue, 15 Apr. 2025 Her makeup included bold brows, a slightly smokey eye and a glossy lip for added definition. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 9 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glossy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy
Adjective
  • Nanette Nanette Lepore Freedom Stretch Pants These straight-leg pants are at once casual and polished, thanks to a tab fly, buttoned back welt pockets, and hems that hit right above the ankles on most people.
    Jamie Allison Sanders, People.com, 18 Apr. 2025
  • The effortless and beachy hairstyle has taken a back seat in recent years to more polished styles like sleek bobs, liquid hair, and voluminous blowouts.
    Catharine Malzahn, Glamour, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Spring is here, which means hydration and moisture is the biggest trend, from sopping wet curls to sleek chignons and water waves.
    India Espy-Jones, Essence, 14 Apr. 2025
  • Housed in a sleek, black PVD full CNC stainless steel shell, the Alien Brain IEMs have a modern aesthetic along with durability and resonance control.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 14 Apr. 2025
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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Glossy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glossy. Accessed 29 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!