English Reference
Adjective

streamlined

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈstɹimˌɫaɪnd/ UK /stɹˈiːmlaɪnd/ stream·lined

adj.having a smooth shape that helps something move quickly through air or water. It also describes a system or process that is made simpler and more efficient.

adj.designed with a smooth contour to reduce aerodynamic or hydrodynamic drag; by extension, simplified or modernised to improve efficiency. Often used to describe industrial designs or administrative procedures.


SIMPLE

The new car has a streamlined body to save fuel.

CONTEXTUAL

The company introduced a streamlined application process to reduce the time it takes to hire new staff.

COMPLEX

By removing redundant layers of management, the CEO created a streamlined corporate structure that could respond more rapidly to shifting market demands.

Usage

Often used both literally in engineering and figuratively in business contexts; typically functions as a participial adjective.

Smartphones have become more powerful over the years, but their designs have also been streamlined.

Ars Technica· 4 Sept 2026
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated