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

Yet the energy is less about being flashy and more about a calm and laid-back confidence. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 June 2026

The defense argued that if jurors believe Anthony felt genuine terror and had no chance for calm reflection, then sudden passion applies, pointing to the video as evidence. —Doug Myers, CBS News, 10 June 2026

Discover the dramatic red cliffs of Praia da Falésia, one of Portugal's most beautiful beaches, and choose between the wild surf in Arrifana or calm seas in the coves near Carvoeiro. —Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026

The street violence erupted despite politicians' calls for calm. —ABC News, 10 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