seeming 1 of 3

seeming

2 of 3

noun

seeming

3 of 3

verb

present participle of seem

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective seeming contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of seeming are apparent, illusory, and ostensible. While all these words mean "not actually being what appearance indicates," seeming implies a character in the thing observed that gives it the appearance, sometimes through intent, of something else.

the seeming simplicity of the story

In what contexts can apparent take the place of seeming?

The synonyms apparent and seeming are sometimes interchangeable, but apparent suggests appearance to unaided senses that may or may not be borne out by more rigorous examination or greater knowledge.

the apparent cause of the accident

When is it sensible to use illusory instead of seeming?

The words illusory and seeming can be used in similar contexts, but illusory implies a false impression based on deceptive resemblance or faulty observation, or influenced by emotions that prevent a clear view.

an illusory sense of security

When could ostensible be used to replace seeming?

The words ostensible and seeming are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ostensible suggests a discrepancy between an openly declared or naturally implied aim or reason and the true one.

the ostensible reason for their visit

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 seeming
Adjective
Single digit morning temperatures, windchills below zero and the seeming constant hum of a furnace working overtime to keep indoors temperatures livable. Karl Ebert, Journal Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2023 That said, overall investment in healthcare is really just back to 2019 levels, a seeming regression to the mean after the pandemic spurred investment capital into areas like drug development, telehealth and other parts of the healthcare industry. Alex Knapp, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023
Noun
But the seeming split between Newsom and Van Hollen is both smaller than media is playing it, and also the most important question vexing Democrats right now: Do Americans care about the Constitution, or the stock market? Americans largely can’t make up their minds about what worries them most. Anita Chabria, Los Angeles Times, 21 Apr. 2025 The magic does indeed happen—the wondrous deceptions, the seeming distortions of reality, the sense of strangeness. Richard Brody, New Yorker, 18 Apr. 2025
Verb
The most persuasive people are able to prove their point without seeming manipulative or ill-intended. Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2024 While seeming meager by today’s equipment standards, these supplies were critical for the volunteers. John Laycock, Baltimore Sun, 27 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for seeming
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seeming
Adjective
  • When asked where Jean lived, Joseph gave an address that police later identified as Roseau’s, an apparent building on Snyder Ave.
    Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 15 June 2025
  • The noted fan was seen rocking the team’s cap in St. Peter’s Square this week in an apparent nod to the upcoming celebration.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 14 June 2025
Noun
  • Over a seven-year career, Civale has made 122 appearances—all as a starting pitcher—with a 4.06 ERA.
    Daniel R. Epstein, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
  • As many as 3,000 people showed up outside Medinah Temple to contest an appearance by Anita Bryant, a singer and orange juice spokesperson who led a successful drive to repeal a gay rights ordinance in Dade County, Florida. 1981: Nobel Peace Prize winner Mother Teresa visited Chicago.
    Kori Rumore, Chicago Tribune, 14 June 2025
Verb
  • In doing so, their press suffered, looking disjointed.
    Charlotte Harpur, The Athletic, 24 Mar. 2025
  • Brian Cashman, though, is still looking at every option on the table.
    Kevin Sabet, Newsweek, 24 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • Appleton was found dead in his truck with a gunshot to the side of his head and face.
    Jeanine Santucci, USA Today, 8 June 2025
  • Her poise in the face of cold windy weather and a volatile opponent helped propel Gauff to victory.
    Merlisa Lawrence Corbett, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • Dutch’s mission is rooted in making that bond possible—for more people—by providing affordable, ongoing access to care.
    Sindhya Valloppillil, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Whether the new song will be included in a possible new Tame Impala album remains to be seen, and tour plans remain a rumor.
    David Browne, Rolling Stone, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • That gives the impression, in the stage production, that Clooney’s Murrow is going toe to toe with the real-life McCarthy.
    Ben Travers, IndieWire, 7 June 2025
  • On social media, comments, shares and saves can be more impactful than impressions.
    Andrea Aker, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • Lionsgate post-Starz spin-off would be the most obvious choice, without the weight of cable networks on both sides and with a host of still-viable Lionsgate franchises including John Wick, The Hunger Games and Saw.
    Howard Homonoff, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025
  • Sending in the National Guard was an obvious military flex, designed to to bait Angelenos while perhaps distracting Americans from Trump’s far greater troubles.
    Mary McNamara, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2025
Noun
  • Future studies with more participants—measuring the long-term effects of these diets—are needed to determine who benefits the most from each one.
    Simon Spichak, Health, 14 June 2025
  • The advisory is in effect until 11 p.m. Ways to stay safe during a flood according to the NWS For either residents or campers of flood-prone, low-lying areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 14 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Seeming.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seeming. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on seeming

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!