Sheer: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to emphasize the large amount, degree, or number of something. It's often used to enhance the feeling of surprise or awe.

• The sheer size of the mountain was overwhelming.
• She managed to achieve sheer perfection in her performance.

Used to describe something that is whole, with all the parts included or finished. It can indicate that something has reached its entire or final form.

• She has made a complete recovery.
• They delivered the complete set of books.

Used when something is total, without any limitations or conditions. It can convey a sense of certainty or definitiveness.

• He has absolute control over the situation.
• Her resignation came as an absolute surprise.

Used to highlight something that is carried to the fullest extent or extreme. Often used to indicate strong negative emotions or situations.

• The meeting was an utter disaster.
• Her story was met with utter disbelief.

This word is often used to describe something that is very steep, like a cliff, or something that is very thin and almost transparent.

• The hiker was intimidated by the sheer cliff
• She chose a sheer blouse for the sunny day

Typically used in a more poetic or literary context to describe something light, delicate, and almost transparent, like fabric.

• She wore a diaphanous gown that fluttered in the breeze
• The curtains in the room were diaphanous, letting in soft, filtered light

This word is mostly used to describe something extremely light, thin, and delicate. It often brings to mind delicate cobwebs or very fine fabric.

• The bride's veil was made of gossamer fabric
• The morning dew clung to the gossamer threads of a spider's web

Used to describe something that lets light through but is not completely transparent, commonly used for materials like glass or plastic.

• The shower door was made of translucent glass, providing some privacy
• The artist chose a translucent paint to give the effect of light passing through

When talking about something very thin or transparent, often used to describe fabrics like curtains or clothing.

• She wore a sheer blouse for the party.
• The sheer curtains let in plenty of light.

Broadly used to describe the action of slicing, chopping, or removing a part of something with a sharp tool.

• He cut the rope with a knife.
• I cut my finger while preparing dinner.

Usually used when referring to making something neat or reducing it slightly, often in the context of hair, plants, or materials.

• She went to the salon to get her hair trimmed.
• I need to trim the hedge in the garden.

Commonly used when referring to cutting something quickly or snipping small pieces, often with scissors or a similar tool.

• I need to clip my nails before the meeting.
• She clipped a coupon out of the newspaper.