even 1 of 3

even

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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
Sellers can even leave the unwanted contents, saving time and expense. Archway Homes, Kansas City Star, 13 July 2025 Assuming he’s appointed 27th Ward alderman, Walter Burnett III will be in an even better position than his stepbrother. The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 13 July 2025
Adjective
All of Thursday’s speakers recommended entering the appeals process with an even tone. Ilana Arougheti, Kansas City Star, 28 June 2025 Since the end of the era of Richard Nixon– a president who, in secret, tried to pressure then-Fed chief Arthur Burns to soften up on policy ahead of the 1972 election – his successors have all supported an independent Fed so that the central bank can keep the economy on an even keel. Ron Insana, CNBC, 26 June 2025
Verb
The Dodgers have won five of six to start the season and have evened the point differential at 32-32 despite the Padres’ 11-1 win last week in San Diego. Jeff Sanders, San Diego Union-Tribune, 19 June 2025 The score was evened when Luke Free excelled in the third singles match, winning in straight sets–6-3, 6-1–against Charlie Derkazarian. Justin Barrasso, Boston Herald, 10 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for even
Recent Examples of Synonyms for even
Adverb
  • 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
  • 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
Adverb
  • Long live Amazon Prime Day 2025 for offering up our favorite candle brands and scents at quite healthy discounts.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 9 July 2025
  • July's full moon will look quite low in the sky after sunset, Space.com says.
    Jenna Prestininzi, Freep.com, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • More research is needed to determine the exact amount of glutamine in pork.
    Lindsey DeSoto, Health, 15 July 2025
  • 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
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
  • Prince Ali envisions steady growth over the next decade.
    Essie Assibu, Variety, 15 July 2025
Verb
  • These pre-soaked exfoliating pads use gentle lactic acid and the brand’s Tri-Enzyme technology to smooth rough patches, fade dark spots, and give your skin that post-facial glow.
    Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 8 July 2025
  • The lion's mane mushroom extract helps smooth any sharp edges from the THC for a mellow Friday night buzz that's perfect for zoning out with a movie.
    Mackensy Lunsford, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Verb
  • Several establishment owners equated the PRO’s efforts to collect fees to a mob-like shakedown, citing aggressive on-site confrontations and threatening letters.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 10 July 2025
  • His ostentatious well-being is scorned by Walker, who equates equilibrium with compromise.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 8 July 2025
Adverb
  • But drill down another level and the challenges facing the legacy networks are grim indeed.
    Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 11 July 2025
  • The Cardinals did indeed need an outing like Thursday’s, all-around.
    Katie Woo, New York Times, 11 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Even.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/even. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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