slippery
word
Definition
Something that is slippery is smooth, wet, or covered in a substance so it is easy to slide on and hard to hold or walk on. It also can describe a person or situation that is difficult to catch, hold, or trust.
Usage & Nuances
Commonly used for wet floors, ice, and objects. Figuratively describes untrustworthy people ('a slippery character') or difficult situations ('a slippery slope'). Often used in warning signs: 'Caution: slippery when wet.' Not usually used for dry items unless very smooth.
Example Sentences
Be careful, the floor is slippery.
basic
The fish felt slippery in my hands.
basic
Ice makes the road slippery.
basic
He's a slippery guy—you can't trust what he says.
natural
These rocks are super slippery after it rains.
natural
It's a slippery slope if we start making exceptions.
natural