Definition

Adjective: * Having a body surface that is free from roughness, projections, or hair; characterized by a sleek, even, and uninterrupted physical form.

Usage

The adjective "smooth-bodied" is used to describe the physical appearance of an animal, object, or sometimes a person, focusing on the texture and continuity of its outer surface. It is a compound adjective typically placed before a noun.

Examples

• The smooth-bodied dolphin sliced effortlessly through the water.
• Many species of snakes are smooth-bodied, unlike pythons which have more textured scales.
• The artifact was a smooth-bodied clay vessel with no handles or decoration.
• Compared to a terrier, a greyhound is a more smooth-bodied dog breed.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in biological and zoological descriptions to classify or contrast species.
  • The larvae of some insects are smooth-bodied, while others are covered in bristles.
• It can be applied in design and engineering to describe aerodynamic or hydrodynamic forms.
  • The car's smooth-bodied design contributed to its low drag coefficient.

Variants and Related Words

• Smooth (adj.): The root word, meaning having an even and regular surface.
• Sleek (adj.): Smooth and glossy, often as a result of being groomed, polished, or streamlined. (e.g., , ).
• Unblemished (adj.): Without marks or flaws, often used for skin or surface quality.

Synonyms

• Sleek
• Unruffled (in specific contexts)
• Hairless (when referring to skin)
• Streamlined (when referring to shape for efficiency)

Antonyms

• Rough-bodied
• Hairy
• Bristly
• Textured
• Rugose (wrinkled or corrugated)

Adjective

1. having a smooth body