silky

adjective

ˈsil-kē 

silkier; silkiest

1

a(1)

: silken sense 1

(2)

: silken sense 2

b

: smooth or fluid in motion

silky dance moves

2

: having or covered with fine soft hairs, plumes, or scales

silkily

ˈsil-kə-lē 

adverb

silkiness

ˈsil-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms

• cottony
• downy
• satin
• satiny
• silken
• silklike
• soft
• velvetlike
• velvety

Examples of silky in a Sentence

The cat has a silky coat.

The material has a silky feel.

Recent Examples on the Web

This is the perfect shirt for that effortlessly chic style since the button-down is silky with a ton of movement and a bit of stretch. —Alesandra Dubin, Travel + Leisure, 31 Oct. 2024

Crafted from high-quality stretch jersey, this pair gets the sophisticated treatment, styled next to The Frankie Shop’s slouchy leather bomber jacket, Citizens of Humanity’s silky striped button-up, and a pair of leopard-print flats, also from Toteme. —Laura Jackson, Vogue, 29 Oct. 2024

Cavaliers are particularly noted for their expressive eyes and long, silky fur, which adds to their charm and appeal. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024

Here, the silky soft fabric, mainly made with recycled materials, feels just like my favorite pair of pajama pants. —Neha Tandon, Travel + Leisure, 3 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1a(1)

Phrases Containing silky

• silky terrier

Kids Definition

silky

adjective

ˈsil-kē 

silkier; silkiest

1

: soft and smooth as silk

2

: having or covered with fine soft hairs, plumes, or scales

silkily

-kə-lē 

adverb

silkiness

-kē-nəs 

noun