similar
Americanadjective
-
having a likeness or resemblance, especially in a general way.
two similar houses.
- Synonyms:
- like
- Antonyms:
- different
-
Geometry. (of figures) having the same shape; having corresponding sides proportional and corresponding angles equal.
similar triangles.
-
Mathematics. (of two square matrices) related by means of a similarity transformation.
adjective
-
showing resemblance in qualities, characteristics, or appearance; alike but not identical
-
geometry (of two or more figures) having corresponding angles equal and all corresponding sides in the same ratio Compare congruent
-
maths (of two classes) equinumerous
Usage
As should not be used after similar: Wilson held a similar position to Jones (not a similar position as Jones ); the system is similar to the one in France (not similar as the one in France )
Synonym Usage
See same.
Other Word Forms
Derived Forms
Etymology
Origin of similar
First recorded in 1605–15; earlier similary, from French similaire or directly from Medieval Latin similāris, equivalent to Latin simili(s) “like, similar” (akin to simul “together”; cf. simplex) + -āris -ar 1
Compare meaning
How does similar compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:
Explanation
Similar things are alike. If you and your best friend both like walking, mystery novels, and chocolate, and you both dislike jogging, science fiction, and Brussels sprouts, the two of you have similar tastes. The Latin root for similar is similis, meaning "like." If two movies have similar plots, you might like one better because it has a better script or more interesting actors. If you're tired of being told how similar you are to your long-haired, friendly mother, you could cut your hair. Or start being rude. Remember that similar ends in "lar" even though it might not sound like it.
Vocabulary lists containing similar
TEKS ELAR Academic Vocabulary List (5th-7th grades)
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The SAT: Language of the Test, List 5
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The Language of Standardized Tests, List 3
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The majority of London boroughs have similar restrictions on street drinking in place, including Camden's neighbouring boroughs of Haringey, Islington and Westminster.
From BBC • Jun. 13, 2026
The setting of Spielberg’s latest looks awfully similar to our own.
From Salon • Jun. 13, 2026
Some may gradually emerge within disks of gas and dust surrounding young stars, while others could form through a process more similar to the collapse that creates stars themselves.
From Science Daily • Jun. 13, 2026
Meltzer describes it as similar to developing an allergy, something he and his colleagues hope to expand research on.
From Slate • Jun. 13, 2026
The spot had been just the same for so long until it cracked open like a bean bud; a thin line similar to a pen stroke grew out of the mole.
From "The Marvellers" by Dhonielle Clayton
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
