peaceful

adjective

peace·​ful ˈpēs-fəl 

1

: peaceable sense 1

They are a peaceful people.

2

: untroubled by conflict, agitation, or commotion : quiet, tranquil

… the feeling … that we as neighbors could settle any disputes in peaceful fashion.

—Franklin D. Roosevelt

3

: of or relating to a state or time of peace

… the feasibility of creating a peaceful world order.

—Alan Tonelson

4

: devoid of violence or force

The opposing groups used peaceful tactics.

peacefully

ˈpēs-fə-lē 

adverb

peacefulness noun

Synonyms of peaceful

• pacific
• pacifist
• peaceable
• neutral

Choose the Right Synonym for peaceful

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 peaceful in a Sentence

The park is so peaceful and quiet.

They settled the conflict by peaceful means.

We need to find a peaceful alternative to war.

Recent Examples on the Web

Individual Americans often join marches against police conduct or Israel for a variety of reasons and remain peaceful. — Hudson Crozier, The Washington Examiner, 9 Nov. 2026

As chlorophyll fades and the brilliant hues of sugar maples, ginkgoes, oaks and more illuminate the horizon, fall gently seduces us into thinking all is beautiful and peaceful. — Carl R. Gold, Baltimore Sun, 8 Nov. 2026

The previous demonstrations, although largely peaceful, have seen thousands arrested and some incidents of violence. — Jack Sommers, CNBC, 8 Nov. 2026

Community organizer Maurice Hardwick, also known as Pastor Mo, is urging young people to keep the celebration peaceful and leave the violence at home. — Gino Vicci, CBS News, 7 Nov. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

peaceful

adjective

peace·​ful ˈpēs-fəl 

1

: enjoying peace and quiet

a peaceful people

2

: quiet entry 2 sense 1c, tranquil

a peaceful countryside

especially : not at war

3

: not involving violence or force

settled the conflict by peaceful means

peacefully

-fə-lē 

adverb

peacefulness noun