Synonyms for

Sheer

Adjective / ʃɪr / Another word for sheer — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

completely clear and transparent; nothing other than; absolute

Synonyms & similar words

bluff curve vapourous swerve gossamer plain downright trend absolute diaphanous filmy veer cobwebby rank unmingled perpendicularly transparent vaporous slue bold unmixed slew gauzy cut transparent clear pure absolute outright utter complete total plain simple unqualified unadulterated unmitigated downright purely wholly entirely exclusively unreservedly unconditional

Synonyms by register

Formal

transparent translucent thin gauzy

Informal

see-through thin light

Literary

ethereal diaphanous gossamer

Antonyms

thick opaque solid dense impenetrable substantial

Common collocations

  • sheer fabric
  • sheer joy
  • sheer delight
  • sheer cliff
  • sheer volume
  • sheer force
  • sheer panic
  • sheer coincidence

Word family

adjective sheer
adverb sheerly

Usage note

As an adjective, 'sheer' can mean very thin or transparent, or it can mean complete or utter. Be mindful of context to avoid confusion.

Compare "sheer" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. The sheer dress was beautiful and see-through.
  2. The sheer amount of people at the concert was overwhelming.
  3. I was sheer exhausted after the long hike.
  4. The mountain was sheer and difficult to climb.
  5. The sheer force of the wind knocked down the tree.

Quotes

  • The sheer force of the wind was incredible.
  • The sheer size of the building took my breath away.
  • I was impressed by the sheer determination of the athletes.

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