seeming 1 of 3

seeming

2 of 3

noun

seeming

3 of 3

verb

present participle of seem

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective seeming contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of seeming are apparent, illusory, and ostensible. While all these words mean "not actually being what appearance indicates," seeming implies a character in the thing observed that gives it the appearance, sometimes through intent, of something else.

the seeming simplicity of the story

In what contexts can apparent take the place of seeming?

The synonyms apparent and seeming are sometimes interchangeable, but apparent suggests appearance to unaided senses that may or may not be borne out by more rigorous examination or greater knowledge.

the apparent cause of the accident

When is it sensible to use illusory instead of seeming?

The words illusory and seeming can be used in similar contexts, but illusory implies a false impression based on deceptive resemblance or faulty observation, or influenced by emotions that prevent a clear view.

an illusory sense of security

When could ostensible be used to replace seeming?

The words ostensible and seeming are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, ostensible suggests a discrepancy between an openly declared or naturally implied aim or reason and the true one.

the ostensible reason for their visit

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of seeming
Adjective
Single digit morning temperatures, windchills below zero and the seeming constant hum of a furnace working overtime to keep indoors temperatures livable. Karl Ebert, Journal Sentinel, 31 Jan. 2023 That said, overall investment in healthcare is really just back to 2019 levels, a seeming regression to the mean after the pandemic spurred investment capital into areas like drug development, telehealth and other parts of the healthcare industry. Alex Knapp, Forbes, 25 Jan. 2023
Noun
Unlike most horror properties, there’s no big baddie (à la Jason Voorhees or Leatherface) — or at least not one capable of getting old and seeming played out. Beatrice Loayza, New York Times, 15 May 2025 Indeed, the silence and seeming condonation grow more marked as the years go by. Liz Tracey, JSTOR Daily, 21 Feb. 2025
Verb
The most persuasive people are able to prove their point without seeming manipulative or ill-intended. Ashton Jackson, CNBC, 28 Dec. 2024 While seeming meager by today’s equipment standards, these supplies were critical for the volunteers. John Laycock, Baltimore Sun, 27 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for seeming
Recent Examples of Synonyms for seeming
Adjective
  • The apparent docking of the two satellites last week suggests SJ-21 is the target for SJ-25's refueling demonstration, and US officials are watching.
    ArsTechnica, ArsTechnica, 8 July 2025
  • Separately, Russia’s transport minister was found dead in what authorities said was an apparent suicide — news that broke hours after the Kremlin announced he had been dismissed by Putin.
    Aamer Madhani, Chicago Tribune, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • Taylor is making his initial appearance in federal court this afternoon, the FBI said.
    Kathleen Wong, USA Today, 8 July 2025
  • Marking her first-ever Dior appearance, Kate delivered a bold and historic style moment steeped in royal legacy.
    Janine Henni, People.com, 8 July 2025
Verb
  • In doing so, their press suffered, looking disjointed.
    Charlotte Harpur, The Athletic, 24 Mar. 2025
  • Brian Cashman, though, is still looking at every option on the table.
    Kevin Sabet, Newsweek, 24 Mar. 2025
Noun
  • The two come face to face in the villa, three years after Clayton dumped Rachel in the season 26 finale of the ABC series.
    Joelle Goldstein, People.com, 14 July 2025
  • Service providers operating without proper authorization face even harsher penalties, with potential sentences reaching eight years for larger operations.
    Boaz Sobrado, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • The operator lands their FPV by the side of a track or on a rooftop and waits for possible targets, alerted either by a spotter drone or using the drone’s own camera.
    David Hambling, Forbes.com, 2 July 2025
  • Check with lifeguards before entering the ocean for possible hazards you may be swept into.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Some design choices, however, amplify the impression of tight quarters.
    Megan Hughes, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 July 2025
  • Any foot impressions left in the shoes could be used to model the feet of the original wearers.
    Kameryn Griesser, CNN Money, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Consolidation by the end of the decade The future of other brands is less obvious, but consolidation among the mainstream brands is likely before the end of the decade.
    Neil Winton, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • But for me, the biggest thing is the collaborations, which are so obvious.
    Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 30 June 2025
Noun
  • The watch will remain in effect until 7 p.m. with up to 10 inches possible, the National Weather Service said in an alert.
    Hannah Parry Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 8 July 2025
  • The danger was not over as flash flood watches remained in effect and more rain fell in central Texas on Sunday.
    Brit Morse, Fortune, 7 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Seeming.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/seeming. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

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