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smooth

adj.
B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈsmuð// UK //smˈuːð// smooth General-service

adj. having a surface that is perfectly flat and even, without any lumps or rough parts. You can also use it to describe a process that happens without any problems.

adj. having an even and regular surface or consistency; free from perceptible projections, lumps, or indentations. Also used figuratively to describe processes or transitions that occur without difficulty or interruption.


SIMPLE

The stone feels very smooth after years in the river.

CONTEXTUAL

The mechanic sanded the car door until the surface was perfectly smooth and ready for painting.

COMPLEX

The transition to the new software system was surprisingly smooth, with minimal downtime and high levels of employee satisfaction during the first week of implementation.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Origin

From Middle English smothe, smethe, from Old English smēþe, smōþ, both from Proto-West Germanic *smanþī, of unknown origin. Cognate with Scots smuith (“smooth”), Saterland Frisian smoud (“smooth”), Low German smood and smödig (“smooth, malleable, ductile”), Dutch smeuïg (“smooth”) (from earlier smeudig).

Usage

Commonly used to describe textures, liquids, or abstract processes. When used as a verb, it is transitive and often takes the particle 'out'.

Idioms4 entries

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