calm

adjective

1

: marked by calm : still

a calm sea

2

: free from agitation, excitement, or disturbance

calmly adverb

calmness noun

Synonyms of calm

• quiet
• tranquil
• serene
• peaceful
• placid
• hushed

Choose the Right Synonym for calm

calm, tranquil, serene, placid, peaceful 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

tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

Examples of calm in a Sentence

The teacher asked us to remain calm after the fire alarm went off.

Let's try to have a calm discussion about your grades.

Recent Examples on the Web

In these suites, separate living areas create space to unwind, while spa-like marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs and walk-in rain showers offer a haven of luxury and calm above the bustling energy of Manhattan. —Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 4 June 2026

Wait until dark when the wasps are calm and in the nest before spraying, and don't try to destroy a nest until at least 24 hours have passed after spraying. —Patricia S York, Southern Living, 3 June 2026

My goal is to help clients explore forms of movement that bring calm, relief, or joy. —Paula Chesley, STAT, 3 June 2026

Logan O’Connor has told me in multiple chats over multiple seasons that players appreciate Jared’s steady, calm voice during a nine-month grind. —Sean Keeler, Denver Post, 3 June 2026

Word History

Etymology

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing calm

• calm, cool, and collected
• cool/calm head
• the calm/lull before the storm

Rhymes for calm

• balm
• bom
• bomb
• dom
• halm
• hom
• malm
• mam
• mom
• palm
• pom
• pomme

Kids Definition

calm

1 of 3 noun

ˈkäm  ˈkälm 

1

a

: a period or state of freedom from storm, wind, or rough water

b

: complete lack of wind or the presence of wind of no more than one mile (1.6 kilometers) per hour

2

: a state of freedom from excitement or disturbance : peacefulness

calm

2 of 3 verb

: to make or become calm

calm

3 of 3 adjective

1

: marked by calm : still

a calm sea

2

: free from excitement or disturbance

a calm manner

calmly adverb

calmness noun