What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
silky
Example
The dress was made of silky fabric that felt wonderful against her skin. [silky: adjective]
Example
She brushed her silky hair until it shone in the light. [silky: adjective]
Example
The moisturizer left her skin feeling silky and smooth. [silky: adjective]
shiny
Example
The car had a shiny new coat of paint that sparkled in the sun. [shiny: adjective]
Example
She wore a pair of shiny patent leather shoes to the party. [shiny: adjective]
Example
Her hair was so shiny and lustrous that it caught everyone's attention. [shiny: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shiny is more commonly used than silky in everyday language. Shiny is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while silky is less common and refers to a specific texture or feel.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between silky and shiny?
Both silky and shiny can be used in formal and informal contexts, but silky may be associated with a more luxurious or elegant tone, while shiny can be associated with a more modern or trendy tone.
