composed

adjective

com·​posed kəm-ˈpōzd 

: free from agitation : calm

especially : self-possessed

They tried to remain composed throughout the ordeal.

composedly

kəm-ˈpō-zəd-lē 

adverb

composedness

kəm-ˈpō-zəd-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of composed

• collected
• calm
• serene
• peaceful
• possessed

Choose the Right Synonym for composed

cool, composed, collected, unruffled, imperturbable, nonchalant mean free from agitation or excitement.

cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

Examples of composed in a Sentence

He had told us he felt nervous about the performance, but he seemed perfectly composed when he walked onto the stage.

They tried to remain composed throughout the ordeal.

Recent Examples on the Web

Finish with a shower of fresh toppings just before serving to ensure that the nachos stay fresh, crisp and composed. — Lynda Balslev, Mercury News, 5 May 2026

Later, Venus enters Cancer, helping your public tone stay warm and composed. — Tarot.com, Baltimore Sun, 18 May 2026

As the moment unfolded, Savannah shushed the future king and even briefly placed her hand over his mouth in an effort to keep him composed. — Staff Author, InStyle, 13 June 2026

McIlroy overcame some early inconsistency to put together a composed round, while Burns leaned on excellent ball-striking to match him at the top. — Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 10 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see compose

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing composed

• self-composed
• through-composed

Rhymes for composed

• decomposed
• discomposed
• indisposed
• interposed
• juxtaposed
• predisposed
• presupposed
• reimposed
• superposed
• undisclosed
• undisposed
• unenclosed

Kids Definition

composed

adjective

com·​posed kəm-ˈpōzd 

: being calm and in control : self-possessed

composedly

-ˈpō-zəd-lē 

adverb