translucent

Definition of translucentnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective translucent contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of translucent are clear, limpid, and transparent. While all these words mean "capable of being seen through," translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond.

translucent frosted glass

When would clear be a good substitute for translucent?

The meanings of clear and translucent largely overlap; however, clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness.

clear water

When might limpid be a better fit than translucent?

In some situations, the words limpid and translucent are roughly equivalent. However, limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water.

her eyes were limpid pools of blue

When is it sensible to use transparent instead of translucent?

The synonyms transparent and translucent are sometimes interchangeable, but transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly.

a transparent sheet of film

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 translucent Raelynn’s parents — Aubree Winnekens and Aaron Kubiske — shared that their daughter’s eyes were sealed shut and her skin was translucent when she was born. Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 27 Aug. 2026 Cook for approximately 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant. ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026 The sneaker’s translucent rubber outsole is also expected to feature a glow-in-the-dark treatment. Riley Jones, Footwear News, 22 Aug. 2026 The attractive tree features dark green foliage and bright red, translucent fruit with a tangy flavor. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 19 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for translucent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for translucent
Adjective
  • Wonder also has a transparent compensation system so employees can see what others at the company make.
    Mia Osmonbekov, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026
  • Moreover, perovskites are lightweight and can be engineered to be semi-transparent, enabling Building-Integrated Photovoltaics (BIPV).
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 26 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Conventional liquid cooling needs pumps, tubing, and reservoirs, which can consume space and add weight.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2026
  • But globs of liquid mercury worked just fine to show the melting shards coming together, even though its toxicity meant the special effects crew had to wear protective gear over the two-day shoot.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 28 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • O’Connor’s face filled the screen, her crystal-blue eyes piercing me in my own living room.
    Jayson Greene, Pitchfork, 25 July 2026
  • Beside the dessert sat a crystal coupe overflowing with Caramelized Shallot Dip from Every Leaf, Every Stem.
    Nina Moskowitz, Bon Appetit Magazine, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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