SYNONYM Synonyms: 22 Similar and Opposite Words

synonym

noun

Definition of synonym

as in equivalent

a word having the same meaning as another word He needed an synonym for "cold," and decided to use "freezing."

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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 synonym Until this additional proposition is demonstrated, agency and intention cannot simply be treated as synonyms. — Hamilton Mann, Forbes.com, 23 Aug. 2026 However, salt and sodium aren’t synonyms—and knowing the difference matters for making healthy food choices. — Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 17 Aug. 2026 Simply replacing common words with synonyms or antonyms would be too easy for a smart scraper to reverse. — Kyle Orland, ArsTechnica, 12 Aug. 2026 Which is why people are still talking about Mangione’s case, using his name as a synonym for the verb to kill, and mirroring aspects of his alleged crime, more than a year later. — Lorena O’Neil, Rolling Stone, 11 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for synonym

Recent Examples of Synonyms for synonym

Noun

This elegant purple is the equivalent of buying a classic Max Mara trench in mulberry instead of tan—streamlined and simple, but with a wink.

— Loren Savini, Allure, 26 Oct. 2026
The company held almost $132 billion in cash, equivalents and short-term investments at the end of June.

— Jordan Novet, CNBC, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of equivalent

Noun

Since its launch 15 years ago, Mubadala Capital has become the first sovereign fund to take in third-party capital, and now manages around $60 billion in its core alternatives business.

— Matthew Martin, semafor.com, 26 Oct. 2026
Explain your limitations in providing what the client wants while offering alternatives if possible.

— Mark Berookim, Forbes.com, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of alternative

Noun

At times, Zukenee’s chameleonic range and ironic language can feel like a shrewd substitute for vulnerability.

— Narsimha Gour Chintaluri, Pitchfork, 21 Oct. 2026
America can point to tankers still transiting Hormuz, but shipping that depends on costly military protection and remains under threat is a poor substitute for normal trade.

— Ali Vaez, Time, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of substitute

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synods

synonym

synonymous

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Style

“Synonym.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/synonym. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of synonym

noun

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