1
as in smoothing
to make free from breaks, curves, or bumps
smoothen the wood for the table thoroughly, or the legs will be uneven
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in polishing
to make smooth or glossy usually by repeatedly applying surface pressure
smoothen the edges of the two parts before trying to join them together
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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
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Recent Examples of smoothening
The under-$10 serum is formulated with 2 percent multimolecular hyaluronic acid and Matrixyl 3000 peptide, a combination of ingredients that quenches the skin while smoothening wrinkles and firming crepey areas.
—
Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026
Alicia Geigel, Southern Living, 10 Mar. 2026
Recent Examples of Synonyms for smoothening
Verb
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Unlike many mineral sunscreens that can sit heavily on the skin, this one absorbs quickly and has a lightweight, smoothing effect.—
Brigitt Earley,
Glamour,
24 Apr. 2026
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But smoothing the appearance of fine lines around your eyes does not require a 12-step regimen or an appointment at the dermatologist’s office.—
Lauren Jarvis-Gibson,
Charlotte Observer,
23 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Various owners have taken the reins over the years, but all were committed to preserving the bar’s old-school character rather than polishing, upgrading, or updating it away.—
Skye Sherman,
Southern Living,
29 Apr. 2026
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Either way, regularly polishing your countertops will help keep your kitchen looking well-maintained and refreshed.—
Farima Ferguson,
The Spruce,
28 Apr. 2026
Verb
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Harvest quinoa by hitting the flower stalks against a hard surface or rubbing them between your hands to separate the seeds from the flower parts or chaff.—
Megan Hughes,
Better Homes & Gardens,
27 Apr. 2026
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An employee washed hands for less than 10 seconds at the sushi bar, and the inspector wants to see 10-15 seconds of your hands rubbing each other.—
David J. Neal,
Miami Herald,
24 Apr. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Smoothening.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/smoothening. Accessed 2 May. 2026.
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