English · Word Candidate

sheer

/ʃɪə̯/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: sheerer · sheerest · sheers · sheering

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Very thin or transparent.

Adjective

Her light, sheer dress caught everyone’s attention.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Downright; complete; pure.

Adjective

I think it is sheer genius to invent such a thing.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

A sheer curtain or fabric.

Noun

Use sheers to maximize natural light.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

The curve of the main deck or gunwale from bow to stern.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “sheer” mean?

Very thin or transparent.

Is “sheer” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.