Have you ever paused while writing or reading and wondered, “Is it smooth or smoothe?” This common question arises because English spelling has evolved over centuries.
creating confusion for writers worldwide. People often search for this keyword to ensure they use the correct form in emails, articles, social media posts, and professional documents.
Choosing the wrong spelling can subtly affect credibility, especially in formal writing. Understanding the difference helps you communicate clearly.
If you’re describing a surface, a process, or even a personality trait. This guide will explain which spelling is correct, where the alternative appears, and how to use the word confidently in everyday writing. By the end, you’ll never hesitate again when faced with smooth or smoothe.
Smooth or Smoothe – Quick Answer
The correct spelling is smooth. The word smoothe is an archaic or less common variant and is rarely used in modern English.
Examples:
- The table’s surface is smooth after sanding.
- He used lotion to make his skin smooth.
The Origin of Smooth or Smoothe
The word smooth comes from Old English smōth, meaning “free from roughness or obstruction.” Historically, English had multiple spelling variations, including smoothe. Over time, standardization in dictionaries and education favored smooth as the accepted modern spelling. The variation smoothe occasionally appears in poetry or old literature but is considered outdated in everyday writing.
British English vs American English Spelling
Both British and American English use smooth as the standard spelling. The variant smoothe is not recognized in modern dictionaries in either region.
| Spelling | Region | Usage Notes | Examples |
| smooth | UK & US | Standard modern usage | The silk feels smooth. |
| smoothe | UK/US | Rare/archaic | Poetic texts may use smoothe. |
Which Spelling Should You Use?
If you are writing for any modern audience, always use smooth.
- US audience: Smooth
- UK/Commonwealth audience: Smooth
- Global audience: Smooth
Reserve smoothe only for historical references, literary, or poetic contexts.
Common Mistakes with Smooth or Smoothe
- Using smoothe in professional writing → Incorrect
- Confusing smooth with similar words like smuthe → Incorrect
- Forgetting context: smooth can be physical, metaphorical, or stylistic.
Corrections: Always default to smooth in emails, reports, or formal writing.
Smooth or Smoothe in Everyday Examples
- Emails: “Please ensure the process is smooth for all users.”
- News: “The transition to the new system was smooth.”
- Social Media: “This chocolate is so smooth and creamy!”
- Formal Writing: “The diplomat’s speech had a smooth delivery.”
Smooth or Smoothe – Google Trends & Usage Data
Search data shows that smooth dominates worldwide usage. Countries like the US, UK, Canada, and Australia heavily prefer smooth, while smoothe appears very rarely and mostly in historical references or literature. The popularity is consistently higher in professional and educational contexts.
Keyword Comparison Table
| Variation | Correctness | Context |
| smooth | ✅ Correct | Modern English, all regions |
| smoothe | ⚠ Rare/archaic | Old literature, poetry |
FAQs
1. Is “smoothe” correct?
- Rarely, only in poetic or archaic contexts. Prefer smooth.
2. Can I use smoothe in American English?
- It’s technically recognized but outdated. Use smooth instead.
3. Are there synonyms for smooth?
- Yes: sleek, polished, even, soft.
4. Can smooth describe personality?
- Yes, e.g., “He had a smooth manner of speaking.”
5. How do I remember the correct spelling?
- Drop the extra “e” → smooth is always correct in modern writing.
6. Is smoothe ever used in modern literature?
- Rarely, mostly in poetic or historical texts.
7. Does British English ever prefer smoothe?
- No, smooth is standard.
Conclusion
The spelling smooth is the modern and widely accepted form in English. While smoothe exists historically, it is largely obsolete and should be avoided in professional, educational, and online contexts. By understanding the origins and usage, you can write confidently and avoid mistakes that might confuse readers or reduce credibility. If describing a soft fabric, a polished surface, or a fluid process, smooth conveys clarity and correctness. Remember to use smooth consistently across emails, social media, articles, and formal writing. Adopting the correct spelling ensures your writing looks professional and polished, avoiding outdated variants like smoothe. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll never second-guess this common word again.

I am James Patterson, one of the world’s bestselling authors, known for fast-paced thrillers like the Alex Cross, Women’s Murder Club, and Maximum Ride series that have captivated millions of readers worldwide. I share my passion for storytelling and writing expertise with readers through my work and also feature insights on my site grammlyx.com, where great writing meets creativity.

