transparent
20 synonyms and 6 antonyms for transparent, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Clear enough to see through; letting light pass so objects behind it are visible.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
Antonyms
How to use transparent
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin transparens, "shining through," from Latin trans- ("through") plus parere ("to appear").
Full origin of transparent →Frequently asked questions
What does “transparent” mean?
The word “transparent” means clear enough to see through; letting light pass so objects behind it are visible. In plain terms, see-through in a literal sense, or open and easy to see through in a figurative one.
How do you pronounce “transparent”?
“Transparent” is pronounced trans-PAR-uhnt (/tɹænsˈpæɹ.ənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “transparent” in a sentence?
Here is “transparent” used in a sentence: “The window was made of transparent glass.”
What is another word for “transparent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “transparent” include see-through, diaphanous, clear, crystalline, limpid and sheer.
What is the opposite of “transparent”?
The opposite of “transparent” — its antonyms — are opaque, obscure, nontransparent, non-transparent and hazy.
What part of speech is “transparent”?
“Transparent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “transparent” come from?
The word “transparent” comes from Medieval Latin. From Medieval Latin transparens, "shining through," from Latin trans- ("through") plus parere ("to appear").
Is “transparent” a common word?
“Transparent” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
What is the difference between transparent and translucent?
Transparent describes something clear enough to see through, so objects behind it are fully visible, like plain glass. Translucent means light passes through but the view is blurred or diffused, like frosted glass. Something transparent transmits both light and a clear image; something translucent transmits only light.
What is the opposite of transparent?
The direct opposite of transparent is opaque, which describes material that light cannot pass through at all. For the figurative sense of being open and honest, opposites include secretive and evasive. Translucent sits between transparent and opaque, letting light through without a clear view.
Is calling a person transparent a compliment or a criticism?
It depends on which sense is meant. Calling someone transparent can be praise, meaning they are open and honest with nothing hidden. It can also be criticism when it means their real motive is so obvious that everyone sees through it, as in "a transparent attempt to shift blame."