elusive

adjective

ē-ˈlü-siv How to pronounce elusive (audio)
Definition of elusivenext
as in slippery
hard to find, capture, or isolate the giant squid is one of the ocean's most elusive inhabitants

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of elusive Playing on a Sunday, however, has been elusive for the two-time NCAA champion at Georgia. — Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 14 Aug. 2026 Efforts to engineer scientific controls continue, though a standout option remains elusive. — Jack Bantock, CNN Money, 13 Aug. 2026 The answer to why there’s something rather than nothing remains elusive, but scientists now know gluons likely play a key role in this greatest of cosmic mysteries. — Joseph Howlett, Scientific American, 13 Aug. 2026 The move back to points to determine a champion is popular among many drivers, few more than Hamlin, as the 45-year-old, 64-time Cup Series winner seeks an elusive first championship. — Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for elusive
Recent Examples of Synonyms for elusive
  1. slippery
  2. transient
  3. evasive
Adjective
  • But the paint allegedly became slippery in the sun, and three riders, including one known as a master of descents, crashed.
    — Eric Klinenberg, New Yorker, 17 Aug. 2026
  • Entrances, polished tile, food court flooring, and the areas near refrigerated cases get slippery quickly as wet shoes cross the thresholds.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of slippery
Adjective
  • Most of the human presence in that region is transient—tourists who marvel at nature and soon depart.
    — Ana Karina Zatarain, New Yorker, 15 Aug. 2026
  • Students will encounter larger classes, fewer course offerings and a more transient instructional workforce.
    — Francisco Ruiz, Chicago Tribune, 14 Aug. 2026
Definition of transient
Adjective
  • Many flying insects include evasive maneuvers into their routine flying patterns.
    — Rachel Sargent Mirus, Hartford Courant, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Yale sees things differently, and its filings portray Rignol as stalling and evasive.
    — Nate Anderson, ArsTechnica, 31 July 2026
Definition of evasive

Browse Nearby Words

elusion
elusive
elutriate
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Elusive.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/elusive. Accessed 18 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on elusive

Nglish: Translation of elusive for Spanish Speakers

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