LINEAR Synonyms: 46 Similar and Opposite Words

linear

adjective

ˈli-nē-ər

Definition of linear

as in direct

free from irregularities or digressions in course the bullets from early firearms were notorious for not following a strictly linear path through the air

Synonyms & Similar Words

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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 linear Chemical engineer and co-founder of Guardian Sports Lee Hanson says these provide a 12% reduction in linear impact when worn by one player in a collision and a 20% reduction if worn by both. — Rae Witte, Time, 15 Oct. 2026 The series isn't a linear timeline through the premiere episode. — David Hookstead Outkick, FOXNews.com, 14 Oct. 2026 The game still seems to be a linear adventure, just one that now allows the occasional vertical shortcut. — James Perkins Mastromarino, NPR, 14 Oct. 2026 At first glance, Rawlinson’s surprising move to the WNBA from Silicon Valley might not appear linear. — Sean Neumann, PEOPLE, 12 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for linear

Recent Examples of Synonyms for linear

Adjective

According to Chen, the business is more direct-to-consumer than wholesale.

— Lisa Lockwood, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
However, the new device has not yet demonstrated direct measurement of Earth’s rotation.

— Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026

Definition of direct

Adjective

Trailing the Brewers 2-0 in the best-of-seven series, the Dodgers desperately need to put themselves in the best possible position to win Game 3 and avoid four straight win-or-go-home contests.

— Maddie Lee, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
In the absence of DJ Moore, Shakir still only received three targets but managed over 80 yards for the second straight week.

— Jonathan Rubin, Charlotte Observer, 14 Oct. 2026

Definition of straight

Adjective

The resulting songs are refreshingly straightforward, and self-aware about it.

— Samuel Hyland, Pitchfork, 19 Oct. 2026
Giving Americans $1,000 or $5,000 invested in a technology index is a straightforward idea; The source and use of the funds will likely be of great debate.

— Sarah Cannon, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2026

Definition of straightforward

Browse Nearby Words

lineaments

linear

linebred

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“Linear.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/linear. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of linear

adjective

Example Sentences

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