crisp 1 of 2

1
as in brittle
having a texture that readily breaks into little pieces under pressure the bag of crisp cookies had a lot of crumbs on the bottom

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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crisp

2 of 2

verb

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective crisp contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of crisp are brittle, fragile, frangible, and friable. While all these words mean "breaking easily," crisp implies a firmness and brittleness desirable especially in some foods.

crisp lettuce

When can brittle be used instead of crisp?

Although the words brittle and crisp have much in common, brittle implies hardness together with lack of elasticity or flexibility or toughness.

brittle bones

When is fragile a more appropriate choice than crisp?

In some situations, the words fragile and crisp are roughly equivalent. However, fragile implies extreme delicacy of material or construction and need for careful handling.

a fragile antique chair

When would frangible be a good substitute for crisp?

The words frangible and crisp are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, frangible implies susceptibility to being broken without implying weakness or delicacy.

frangible stone used for paving

When could friable be used to replace crisp?

The meanings of friable and crisp largely overlap; however, friable applies to substances that are easily crumbled or pulverized.

friable soil

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 crisp
Adjective
Toss with some of the reduced basting juices, and then grill or broil at high heat until the meat begins to crisp and caramelize. Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 28 May 2025 Unlike standard toaster ovens, both air fryer ovens and basket-style air fryers rely on a combination of high heat and convection (moving hot air around with a fan) to crisp up your food. Emily Farris, Bon Appétit, 21 Feb. 2025
Verb
In this set, the 200-thread-count cotton makes for lightweight yet durable sheets and pillowcases, and the fabric feels crisp and smooth. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 29 June 2025 Smaller cucumbers tend to remain crisp and fresh longer than oversized ones. Katie Rosenhouse, Southern Living, 29 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for crisp
Recent Examples of Synonyms for crisp
Adjective
  • Like a brittle leaf spiraling down a garden path, or the last cigarette passed between friends.
    arkansasonline.com, arkansasonline.com, 5 July 2025
  • In extreme cold, the plastic frames can become brittle and break.
    Joyce Orlando, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
Adjective
  • Original price: $199.99 The Bay Isle Home Cerina Boho Natural Rattan Shoe Storage Cabinet features adjustable interior shelves for storing up to 12 pairs of shoes, as well as a convenient top drawer for small essentials, helping to keep your home tidy and chic.
    Nora Colomer may earn a commission if you buy through our referral links. This content was created by a team that works independently from the Fox newsroom., FOXNews.com, 28 June 2025
  • There’s even a playful nod to Jo’s creative side: one corner features a tidy workstation for writing recipes, meal planning, or just sipping coffee in peace.
    Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • This epic yet concise 90-minute local history melange is told through short vignettes.
    Christopher Arnott, Hartford Courant, 25 June 2025
  • Complex questions produced up to six times more carbon dioxide emissions than questions with concise answers.
    CNN.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 25 June 2025
Verb
  • The shockwave caused by the tragedy is still rippling through the football world.
    Thom Harris, New York Times, 5 July 2025
  • That same uncertainty is rippling through Asheville’s lodging industry, where some hotel managers say most reservations are now made the day of.
    Charlotte Observer, Charlotte Observer, 3 July 2025
Adjective
  • Portland made headlines last week after deciding to part ways with president Inky Son less than three months after she was hired, underlining the risk of short launch timelines for newcomers.
    Eric Jackson, Sportico.com, 1 July 2025
  • For that reason, cities with the shortest commute times contribute to top job market rankings in SmartAssets' study.
    Anne Marie D. Lee, CBS News, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • Proofs can vary significantly, but many cask strength bourbons land between 110 and 135 proof, delivering an intense and layered sipping experience that can be softened with a splash of water or enjoyed neat for full impact.
    Emily Price, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
  • Material: 99% cotton, 1% elastane Washes: 3 options Mother’s Hustler jeans flare ever so slightly at the ankles, with a raw hem that’s edgy but still neat enough to wear to work.
    Jake Henry Smith, Glamour, 23 June 2025
Adjective
  • In a brief exchange with reporters on Friday, Carney addressed questions about the breakdown in talks.
    Rebecca Schneid, Time, 29 June 2025
  • For a brief moment, everything seemed to be going according to plan.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 29 June 2025
Verb
  • The Drop’s Ilana maxi dress is a timeless staple with a relaxed fit, ruffled hem, and keyhole button closure.
    Olivia Young, Travel + Leisure, 22 June 2025
  • That fuss would, in turn, ruffle the complacent country club and horsey set, the church folk, and the Cavalier-mad UVA alumni who had never quite left behind their college days.
    Deborah Baker June 3, Literary Hub, 3 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Crisp.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://x0upouf933.proxynodejs.usequeue.com/thesaurus/crisp. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

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