SLIPPERY Synonyms: 121 Similar and Opposite Words

slippery

adjective

ˈsli-p(ə-)rē

Definition of slippery

as in shady

given to acting in secret and to concealing one's intentions a bar where a lot of slippery characters were known to hang out

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in elusive

hard to find, capture, or isolate a slippery concept that we had trouble understanding

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in slicked

having or being a surface so smooth as to greatly reduce traction had trouble keeping upright on the slippery ice

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 slippery Their outsoles also flare out, giving you stable footing on uneven ground or slippery surfaces. — Sian Babish, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026 Ancient Greek roads had wheel ruts to guide carts over steep or slippery terrain. — George C. Lee Ii, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026 Rectitude is a hindrance in the game of electoral politics, where money greases the slippery pole and glad-hands welcome the winner with inside information. — Voice Of The People, New York Daily News, 24 Aug. 2026 People keep trying to game this out more concretely, but the numbers are slippery. — John Werner, Forbes.com, 22 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for slippery

Recent Examples of Synonyms for slippery

Adjective

But for now, CyberLeek is trying to monetize the GTA 6 leaks by asking for shady donations.

— Michael Kan, PC Magazine, 25 Aug. 2026
Others sat in shady spots on Montrose Avenue where the parade units combined with waiting community groups to end the parade at the festival grounds.

— Karie Angell Luc, Chicago Tribune, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of shady

Adjective

Fulton also registered a textbook open-field tackle on the elusive Milroe on a play that was called back because of a penalty.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 29 Aug. 2026
Greenspan was renowned for his formidable data-crunching capabilities, sharp reading of market psychology, and subtle, often elusive communication style.

— , CNBC, 28 Aug. 2026

Definition of elusive

Adjective

Between rough-cut fringe, mermaid wave extensions, a bouffant side part and a slicked ponytail, Madix and Bembridge fearlessly sampled every style and silhouette in the big book of hair this season.

— Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 13 July 2026
But if opting for a slicked knot that eliminates all natural texture feels a little too intense, a relaxed and romantic ballet bun can provide some welcome balance.

— Calin Van Paris, InStyle, 4 July 2026

Definition of slicked

Adjective

Paranormal Activity, the play, builds to the sort of slick and grisly finale that would be just right for the end of a cruel horror movie, but that lands awkwardly onstage.

— Jackson McHenry, Vulture, 26 Aug. 2026
The government’s YouTube series featuring the transportation secretary is slick, well-made and about the Duffys, not the nation.

— Monica Hesse, Washington Post, 25 Aug. 2026

Definition of slick

Adjective

This non-greasy, lightweight formula improves scalp health to promote healthy, thicker, and faster hair growth.

— Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 26 Aug. 2026
This is a player who has been a modestly above-average finisher throughout his career, and has a serious nose for cashing in greasy goals at the net front.

— Thomas Drance, New York Times, 26 Aug. 2026

Definition of greasy

Browse Nearby Words

slipperiness

slippery

slipping

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Cite this Entry

Style

“Slippery.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/slippery. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Synonyms of slippery

adjective

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