composure

noun

com·​po·​sure kəm-ˈpō-zhər 

: a calmness or repose especially of mind, bearing, or appearance : self-possession

The witness started to break down, then paused and regained her composure.

Synonyms

• aplomb
• calmness
• collectedness
• composedness
• cool
• coolness
• countenance
• equanimity
• equilibrium
• imperturbability
• placidity
• repose
• sangfroid
• self-composedness
• self-possession
• serenity
• tranquility
• tranquillity
• tranquilness

Choose the Right Synonym for composure

equanimity, composure, sangfroid mean evenness of mind under stress.

equanimity suggests a habit of mind that is only rarely disturbed under great strain.

accepted her troubles with equanimity

composure implies the controlling of emotional or mental agitation by an effort of will or as a matter of habit.

maintaining his composure even under hostile questioning

sangfroid implies great coolness and steadiness under strain.

handled the situation with professional sangfroid

Examples of composure in a Sentence

After the initial shock she regained her composure.

kept his composure in spite of the repeated provocations

Recent Examples on the Web

The need for self-discipline and composure is intense, urging one to deny themselves gratifying desires and entanglements that augment their minds. —Lisa Stardust, People.com, 10 Oct. 2024

Here are a few strategies to turn a challenging, unstructured interview into an opportunity: Recognize the situation and maintain composure. —Gina Riley, Forbes, 3 Oct. 2024

The man is Matthias: With no context for this scene forthcoming, we’re left to assume that amateur firefighting on a golf course is simply another day at the office for a man who prides himself on his composure and helpfulness in all situations. —Guy Lodge, Variety, 1 Sep. 2024

Just as archers practice visualization and cognitive reframing to manage stress and maintain composure in challenging situations, leaders can also use scenario planning and self-talk to become more resilient. —Juan Carlos Holgado michael D. Watkins, Harvard Business Review, 16 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see compose

First Known Use

1647, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing composure

• keep one's cool/composure
• lose one's cool/composure
• maintain one's cool/composure

Kids Definition

composure

noun

com·​po·​sure kəm-ˈpō-zhər 

: calmness especially of mind, manner, or appearance

she kept her composure