Slicker: meaning, definitions and examples

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slicker

[ˈslɪkər ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

fashion

A person who is well-dressed and stylish, often with a sophisticated or trendy appearance.

Synonyms

dandy, fashionista, stylish person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slicker	Usually refers to someone who is very smooth in appearance or behavior, sometimes with a negative connotation implying deceitfulness. He looked like a real slicker in his new suit, but you could never trust him
dandy	Describes a man who places particular importance on his physical appearance, often dressing flamboyantly or fashionably. The term can carry an old-fashioned or even slightly mocking tone. He was quite the dandy, always seen in the latest fashion and perfectly groomed
fashionista	A modern term for someone who is very interested in and knowledgeable about fashion. It is mostly used in a positive sense to describe trendy and stylish individuals. She's a well-known fashionista and her outfits always steal the show at fashion week
stylish person	A general term for anyone who has a good sense of style and consistently dresses well. This term is neutral or positive and can be used for people of any gender. He's known as a stylish person in the office, always wearing the latest trends with confidence

Examples of usage

He always stood out in a crowd, a real slicker with his designer suits.
The party was full of young slickers showing off their latest fashion trends.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

American West

A person from the city who is inexperienced in rural or outdoor activities, especially in cowboy culture.

Synonyms

city slicker, greenhorn, tenderfoot.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slicker	Used to describe someone who is charming and smooth in their behavior, often with a slight connotation of dishonesty or superficiality. That guy is a real slicker; he can talk his way out of anything. Be careful doing business with him, he's a slicker.
city slicker	Specifically refers to someone who is from the city and may lack practical skills or common sense in rural or less urban settings. Often used humorously or pejoratively. The city slicker struggled to start the campfire. They called him a city slicker because he got lost in the woods.
greenhorn	Describes someone who is inexperienced or new to a particular activity or field. It has a slightly negative connotation, implying naivety. The greenhorn made a lot of mistakes on his first day. It's easy to spot a greenhorn by their hesitation.
tenderfoot	Similar to 'greenhorn', this term is used to describe someone new to a difficult or rugged environment. Often used in contexts like hiking, scouting, or any situation requiring tough adaptability. As a tenderfoot in the scouts, he had a lot to learn. The seasoned cowboys laughed at the tenderfoot's struggles.

Examples of usage

The slicker was clearly out of his element when he tried to ride a horse for the first time.
He looked like a typical slicker with his shiny shoes and lack of knowledge about camping.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

rain protection

A long, loose-fitting overcoat made of oilskin or other waterproof material, worn to protect against rain.

Synonyms

mackintosh, raincoat, waterproof coat.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
slicker	Used to describe a shiny, glossy raincoat often made of plastic or rubber. He grabbed his yellow slicker from the hook by the door before heading out into the storm. Children wearing colorful slickers splashed in the puddles.
raincoat	A general term for any coat designed to protect against rain. It can be made of various materials. Make sure to pack your raincoat for the trip, just in case it rains. He lent her his raincoat when the skies suddenly opened up.
mackintosh	A type of waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric. The term is more commonly used in British English. Don't forget your mackintosh; the forecast says it's going to rain all day. She wore a classic mackintosh to keep dry during the unexpected downpour.
waterproof coat	Refers to any coat made from materials that prevent water from passing through, suitable for various outdoor activities beyond just rain. Her waterproof coat was perfect for the hike in the misty mountains. He invested in a high-quality waterproof coat for his upcoming fishing trip.

Examples of usage

He put on his slicker before heading out into the storm.
The fishermen wore slickers to stay dry while working on the boat.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'slick' originated in the early 19th century, describing something smooth or glossy.
The word 'slicker' emerged as a comparative form to emphasize being more slick, coined in American English.
In the 20th century, 'slicker' gained popularity in slang, particularly in describing smooth-talking individuals.

Pop Culture

Songs and movies often portray slick characters as charismatic yet untrustworthy, highlighting their dual nature.
In the film industry, slicker characters frequently play charming con artists, showcasing both intelligence and deception.
The term has been used in popular music lyrics to depict someone who plays with feelings or gets what they want easily.

Psychology

Psychologically, slick individuals often possess high levels of charisma and can manipulate social situations to their advantage.
They tend to score high on social intelligence tests, allowing them to read and influence other people's emotions effectively.
Research suggests that slicker personalities may rely on charm and quick wit to navigate interpersonal relationships, sometimes leading to distrust.

Social Dynamics

In social settings, slicker types can either be seen as leaders due to their confidence or as manipulators, depending on their intentions.
They often thrive in competitive environments, where their ability to persuade others can lead to success.
The balance between being slick and genuine can heavily influence a person’s reputation in social circles.

Literature

In literary works, characters described as slick often reveal deeper themes of trust and deception.
Classic novels often depict slick individuals as both charming and dangerous, embodying the conflict between allure and danger.
Authors use slick characters to explore the complexities of morality, often blurring the lines between good and bad.

Translations

Translations of the word "slicker" in other languages:

🇵🇹 impermeável

🇮🇳 बरसाती

🇩🇪 Regenmantel

🇮🇩 jas hujan

🇺🇦 плащ

🇵🇱 płaszcz przeciwdeszczowy

🇯🇵 レインコート

🇫🇷 imperméable

🇪🇸 impermeable

🇹🇷 yağmurluk

🇰🇷 비옷

🇸🇦 معطف واق من المطر

🇨🇿 pláštěnka

🇸🇰 pršiplášť

🇨🇳 雨衣

🇸🇮 dežni plašč

🇮🇸 regnkápa

🇰🇿 жаңбыр пальто

🇬🇪 წვიმის მოსაცმელი

🇦🇿 yağmurluq

🇲🇽 impermeable

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,107 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

...
32104 prudish
32105 unworldly
32106 stapling
32107 slicker
32108 tattle
32109 arboretum
32110 lunging
...