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 Like sparkling citrus that feels like late-summer light, warm vanilla and orchard tones for autumn’s cozy neutrals, and playful gourmand notes that give glossy, indulgent energy. Allure Editors, Allure, 10 Sep. 2025 Finished with a glossy porcelain enamel coating, the dish is scratch-resistant and doesn’t retain moisture. Maggie Horton, PEOPLE, 10 Sep. 2025 Today, makeup trends are decidedly more radiant, with juicy lip stains leading the charge—offering the allure of a glossy finish, paired with the long-lasting wear of a tint. Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 10 Sep. 2025 Seal the deal with your favorite glossy top coat, and voilà. Karina Hoshikawa, Refinery29, 10 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for glossy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for glossy
Adjective
  • Inside, the brand’s iconic satin Aetherna finish creates a play of light and shadow, On the outside, a polished gold edge accentuates the three-dimensionality of the shapes, which embrace a luminous diamond.
    Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
  • According to Pinterest’s 2025 Fall Trends Report, searches for preppy staples are skyrocketing as folks embrace this polished aesthetic.
    Francesca Krempa, Travel + Leisure, 15 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The 849 Testarossa—which will be available as a coupe or spider with a retractable top—sports a sleek yet aggressive look in line with the rest of the brand’s current lineup, in particular the F80 and 296.
    Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 10 Sep. 2025
  • Kevan Hall launched his career in the 1980s, quickly making his mark with sleek, elegant designs that fused Hollywood glamour with modern sophistication.
    Karissa Mitchell, Essence, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The ridiculously nourishing formula leaves you glistening but never greasy, with the coconut, açai, and brazil nut oils restoring suppleness to a level that pleased our testers as much as its tropical, coconutty scent and mess-free pump.
    Sophia Panych, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
  • What can any of us make of our momentary intimate lives in such an immense world, with equally immense unknowns, mysteries as great as death or the whale, as deep as love or the ocean, as sad and beautiful as a jellyfish torn and glistening in a small fortress of shore rock?
    Natalie Diaz September 11, Literary Hub, 11 Sep. 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

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Cite this Entry

“Glossy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/glossy. Accessed 18 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on glossy

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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