even 1 of 3

even

2 of 3

adjective

1
as in exact
being neither more nor less than a certain amount, number, or extent the distance to town is an even mile

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
3
4
as in steady
not varying energy demands do not stay even throughout the day but peak significantly during the afternoon hours

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

even

3 of 3

verb

1
as in to smooth
to make free from breaks, curves, or bumps even the filling before adding the top layer of the cake

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

2
as in to equate
to make equal in amount, degree, or status the contention that producing more arms will even us with the enemy and therefore make us more secure

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective even contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of even are flat, level, plane, and smooth. While all these words mean "having a surface without bends, curves, or irregularities," even applies to a surface that is noticeably flat or level or to a line that is observably straight.

trim the hedge so it is even

When can flat be used instead of even?

The words flat and even are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, flat applies to a surface devoid of noticeable curvatures, prominences, or depressions.

the work surface must be flat

Where would level be a reasonable alternative to even?

In some situations, the words level and even are roughly equivalent. However, level applies to a horizontal surface that lies on a line parallel with the horizon.

the vast prairies are nearly level

When could plane be used to replace even?

While in some cases nearly identical to even, plane applies to any real or imaginary flat surface in which a straight line between any two points on it lies wholly within that surface.

the plane sides of a crystal

When is it sensible to use smooth instead of even?

Although the words smooth and even have much in common, smooth applies especially to a polished surface free of irregularities.

a smooth skating rink

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 even
Adverb
Additionally, Sandler appeared in character at last month’s NHL Draft to announce the pick for Happy’s favorite hockey team, the Boston Bruins, and the star even had his own category on Jeopardy! this week. Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 25 July 2025 The England midfielder even had time to visit Barnet’s stadium The Hive for a friendly against Wycombe Wanderers, managed by his friend and former Birmingham City youth coach Mike Dodds. Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 25 July 2025
Adjective
This can help a person meet threats that might last for hours or even days. Jaci Gandenberger, The Conversation, 21 July 2025 The butchered bones found in the cave were mostly an even mix of small ungulates (largely gazelle) and medium-sized ones (red deer, fallow deer, wild goats, and boar), with just a few larger game animals thrown in. ArsTechnica, 18 July 2025
Verb
Formulated with skin-nourishing ingredients like vitamin C, collagen, and sodium hyaluronate (a sister to hyaluronic acid), the serum reduces signs of aging and supports collagen production, evens your skin complexion, and defends against free radicals. Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 7 July 2025 The win evened the best-of-seven Stanley Cup Final at one win apiece. Michael Russo, New York Times, 7 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for even
Recent Examples of Synonyms for even
Adverb
  • Vertical Applications While Parker admits the traditional style of lap siding still dominates the siding landscape, verticality is certainly having a moment.
    Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 July 2025
  • But the actor is certainly no stranger to grabbing the attention of Emmy voters; this is his sixth Emmy nomination — and his sixth time turning voters' heads while wearing scrubs.
    Shania Russell, EW.com, 15 July 2025
Adverb
  • Biggest question: Can Ben Johnson unlock Swift? Johnson is quite familiar with what Swift does well.
    Sean Hammond, Chicago Tribune, 21 July 2025
  • Apparently, everything in the United States of America is operating at amazing and unprecedented levels of pure excellence, because the president has turned his attention to a topic that isn't quite vitally important for the enrichment and well-being of the nation's people: Sports team nicknames.
    Jim Reineking, USA Today, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • The exact revenue baseline won’t be known until Maryland files its FY25 financials with the NCAA early next year.
    Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 15 July 2025
  • More research is needed to determine the exact amount of glutamine in pork.
    Lindsey DeSoto, Health, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Another clip showing a comparison between Matt as a baby, and Darcy at the same age, the father and daughter looking identical to each other, also proved popular online.
    Rachael O'Connor, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 July 2025
  • Palmer netted an early brace with two almost identical goals just eight minutes apart midway through the first half.
    Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Its adjustable cords allow for subtle resistance changes, and the arched legs keep everything steady.
    Jordan Galloway, SELF, 15 July 2025
  • Its eventual core range will all be built on the same quiet, steady progress that’s defined the last couple years.
    Felipe Schrieberg, Forbes.com, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • Iron the back side or inside of the fabric first, then flip it over to smooth the outside.
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 20 July 2025
  • Downy’s wrinkle spray works in a matter of seconds: Just lay your clothing flat, spritz it with wrinkle release spray, and use your hands to smooth the material out.
    Rylee Johnston, Travel + Leisure, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • In four past surveys, consumers equated financial comfort to a net worth between $624,000 and $1 million.
    Daniel de Visé, USA Today, 26 July 2025
  • Many solo business owners fall into the trap of equating visibility with trust building.
    Tanya Edgar, Forbes.com, 22 July 2025
Adverb
  • And then you were born in a place, unlike so many places today (and indeed all countries even a century or two ago), where medicine and care enabled you to live into adulthood.
    Simon Boas July 23, Literary Hub, 23 July 2025
  • It must be acknowledged that this issue is indeed tricky.
    , CNBC, 23 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Even.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/even. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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