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

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

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 …

Straight up or straight down; perpendicular; precipitous; unobstructed: as, a sheer descent. Very thin and delicate; diaphanous: especially said of cambric or muslin.

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

Jan 29, 2026 · Used to emphasize the amount or degree of something. The army's sheer size made it impossible to resist.

Sheer is an adjective that can generally refer to something extremely or utmost in degree, amount or intensity. It can also describe something complete and pure.

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.

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!