flat

/flæt/
nounadjectiveBeginner
general

A level surface with no significant elevation changes.

The table has a flat top.

The table's surface is even and smooth.

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Often used to describe surfaces like floors, tables, or landscapes.

informal

An apartment or set of rooms for rent.

She rented a flat in the city center.

She leased an apartment in the city center.

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Common in British English; in American English, 'apartment' is more common.

informal

Lacking energy or enthusiasm.

He felt flat after the long meeting.

He felt tired and unmotivated after the meeting.

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Often used to describe a person's mood or energy level.

⚙️Engineering
technical

A type of tire with no tread, used for racing.

The car was fitted with flat tires for the race.

The car used slick tires designed for maximum traction on dry surfaces.

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Also called 'slick tires' in some contexts.

Collocations

flat surfacea smooth, level arearent a flatto lease an apartmentgo flatto lose energy or enthusiasm

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

flat outphrase
as fast as possible
flat brokephrase
having no money

💡Pro Tip

Regional Usage

In British English, 'flat' often refers to an apartment, while in American English, 'apartment' is more common.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The meaning of 'flat' depends heavily on context—ensure you understand whether it refers to a surface, a living space, or a state of being.

📖Word Origin

From Old English 'flæt,' meaning 'level surface,' related to Old Norse 'flatr.'

📝Usage Notes

In British English, 'flat' can mean an apartment, while in American English, 'apartment' is more common. The word can also describe a lack of energy or a smooth surface.

Word Breakdown

flat
level or smooth
root
English Dictionary