steep, abrupt, precipitous, sheer mean having an incline approaching the perpendicular. steep implies such sharpness of pitch that ascent or descent is very difficult.

sheer adjective (THIN) Sheer clothing or material is so thin, light, and delicate that you can see through it: sheer nylon tights

Sheer definition: transparently thin; diaphanous, as some fabrics.. See examples of SHEER used in a sentence.

Definition of sheer adjective from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. [only before noun] used to emphasize the size, degree or amount of something. The area is under threat from the sheer number …

Collocations: sheer [size, strength, expanse, number, weight, amount, force], [amazed, surprised, overwhelmed] by the sheer [size] of it, that was sheer stupidity!, more...

Nov 18, 2025 · Used to emphasize the amount or degree of something. quotations The army's sheer size made it impossible to resist.

1. transparently thin; diaphanous, as some fabrics: sheer stockings. 2. unmixed with anything else; unadulterated: sheer rock; sheer luck. 3. unqualified; utter: sheer nonsense. 4. extending down or up …

There are 20 meanings listed in OED's entry for the word sheer, seven of which are labelled obsolete. See ‘Meaning & use’ for definitions, usage, and quotation evidence.

You can use sheer to emphasize that a state or situation is complete and does not involve or is not mixed with anything else.

Discover the meaning of 'sheer', explore its usage in everyday language, popular idioms, and fun facts that make this word fascinating. Perfect for learners and curious minds!