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calm

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noun

calm

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verb

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a calm demeanor
a cool demeanor
a placid demeanor
a tranquil demeanor
a peaceful demeanor
a relaxed demeanor
calm determination
quiet determination
cool determination
stoic determination
placid determination
tranquil determination
calm dignity
quiet dignity
serene dignity
tranquil dignity
placid dignity
gentle dignity
calm wind
gentle wind
soft wind
mild wind
light wind

Synonym Chooser

How is the word calm different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of calm are peaceful, placid, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than calm?

In some situations, the words peaceful and calm are roughly equivalent. However, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When might placid be a better fit than calm?

The words placid and calm can be used in similar contexts, but placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When would serene be a good substitute for calm?

Although the words serene and calm have much in common, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of calm?

The synonyms tranquil and calm are sometimes interchangeable, but tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

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 calm
Adjective
And safety officials say that’s exactly why early driver education and calm, intentional practice are so important. Sydney Barragan, Oc Register, 26 June 2025 Overall, the collection was a calm blend of sharp tailoring, streetwear staples, and polished off-duty pieces. Julian Randall, Essence, 25 June 2025
Noun
Unlike the more bustling Great Barrington, Williamstown trades crowds for calm, without sacrificing culture. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 For more than 20 years, neuroscientists have been documenting how mindfulness meditation can help people cultivate calm and improve their mood, among other benefits. Mariah G. Schug, Scientific American, 27 June 2025
Verb
No matter what happens, USC’s next president will have a serious financial crisis to solve, a furious faculty to calm and a tense political climate to navigate. Los Angeles Times, 7 July 2025 Her youngest has trouble regulating his emotions, and Williams said the class gave her techniques, like breathing exercises, to help the boy calm down. Michael Cuglietta, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for calm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for calm
Adjective
  • Pulse Picks Yes, the MLB trade deadline could be quiet … but there are some big names that could move, too.
    Chris Branch, New York Times, 9 July 2025
  • Both headphones are astonishingly quiet, virtually eliminating lower drone sounds, cutting higher frequency noises like key clicks, and even erasing piercing sounds like dogs barking with a bit of music.
    Ryan Waniata, Wired News, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • Big Momma the alligator is one of his muses, as are curious bobcats and the serene landscape.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 June 2025
  • The entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a kaleidoscope of lush valleys, dramatic waterfalls and serene lagoons.
    Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • The 40,000-square-foot Spa Montage, meanwhile, is a destination in itself and includes a peaceful infinity pool surrounded by tropical greenery.
    John Wogan, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
  • An excellent way to unwind from daily stressors, stargazing can serve as a peaceful, mindfulness practice.
    Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • Trump has made brokering peace with Russia and Ukraine a priority of his administration, but has been unsuccessful at producing a ceasefire even though he’s helped bring both sides to the negotiating table.
    Ross O'Keefe, The Washington Examiner, 5 July 2025
  • Just a few minutes from downtown Saluda, this relaxed, pet-friendly lodge is all about simple pleasures—coffee on the deck, starry nights by the fire pit, and the kind of peace that comes naturally when you’re surrounded by forest.
    Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 5 July 2025
Verb
  • Garlic’s many health benefits include immunity support, soothing inflammation, and boosting collagen production.
    Alessandra Signorelli, Vogue, 1 July 2025
  • The writer-director made sure all players honored poker rules and that movies were playing so anyone mad about a poker loss could soothe their financial pain.
    Samantha Rodriguez, Miami Herald, 30 June 2025
Verb
  • The new collection contains 20 examples of chain-making expertise, many of which are paved with diamonds and paired with statement gems.
    Anthony DeMarco, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • For reference, a cigarette typically contains 10 to 15 mg of nicotine.
    Erica Sloan, SELF, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • You and your date are nestled on Mozart's expansive deck, with a signature coffee in hand, watching this spectacular show unfold over the tranquil waters of Lake Austin.
    Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
  • The tranquil spa on the property’s lower level feels like a hidden oasis, with a sleek and contemporary pool that is, in fact, the only indoor swimming pool in inner Copenhagen.
    Elizabeth Brownfield, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
Adjective
  • Despite suffering from a severe injury at 13,800 feet, the climber remained responsive and composed.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 9 July 2025
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Calm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/calm. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

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