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

More aggressive than the Tide, more physical, more composed and clearly better prepared, the Hoosiers showed zero rust after a month-long break after the Big Ten championship game. —Paul Myerberg, USA Today, 2 Jan. 2026

But Peggy never forgot her roots; a genre-blending selector with range, she’s known for her energetic but composed sets. —Kelly Washington, Refinery29, 22 Dec. 2025

Her face is no longer straining to remain composed. —Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2025

Sweetgreen salads and composed bowls are also customizable. —Susan Selasky, Freep.com, 8 Dec. 2025

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