like clockwork

ADJECTIVE

cyclic

Synonyms

STRONG

cyclical

WEAK

periodic periodical recurring repeating

ADJECTIVE

isochronal

Synonyms

WEAK

alternate chain continued cyclic cyclical frequent habitual intermittent isochronous periodic periodical recurring regular reoccurring repeated repetitive rolling

ADJECTIVE

isochronous

Synonyms

WEAK

alternate chain continued cyclic cyclical frequent habitual intermittent isochronal periodic periodical recurring regular reoccurring repeated repetitive rolling

ADVERB

swimmingly

Synonyms

STRONG

smoothly

WEAK

as planned cosily easily effectively effortlessly favorably fortunately happily like a dream prosperously quickly satisfyingly successfully well with flying colors with no trouble without a hitch

Antonyms

WEAK

lousy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

I have a confession, and it is not particularly chic: Twice a year, like clockwork, I crave Cajun chicken pasta.

From Salon • Apr. 7, 2026

I’m not sure what would provoke anyone to tune in, but like clockwork, the viewership billowed to the thousands.

From Slate • Feb. 23, 2026

At 74, I jumped into the 889th of the 1,200 circles and am moving through the 25th row like clockwork.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 4, 2025

In other words, earthquakes didn’t seem to re-occur like clockwork, rupturing the same stretch of fault in a repeatable, predictable pattern.

From Los Angeles Times • Aug. 11, 2025

This God created a world that ran like clockwork, with every plant, animal, and creature a cog in the great machine.

From "Charles and Emma: The Darwins' Leap of Faith" by Deborah Heiligman

like clockwork

Example Sentences

Related Words