restful

adjective

rest·​ful ˈrest-fəl 

1

: marked by, affording, or suggesting rest and repose

a restful color scheme

2

: being at rest : quiet

restfully

ˈrest-fə-lē 

adverb

restfulness noun

Synonyms

• quiet
• peaceful
• serene
• tranquil
• placid

Choose the Right Synonym for restful

comfortable, cozy, snug, easy, restful mean enjoying or providing a position of contentment and security.

comfortable applies to anything that encourages serenity, well-being, or complacency as well as physical ease.

started feeling comfortable in our new surroundings

cozy suggests warmth, shelter, assured ease, and friendliness.

a cozy neighborhood coffee shop

snug suggests having just enough space for comfort and safety but no more.

a snug little cottage

easy implies relief from or absence of anything likely to cause discomfort or constraint.

living in easy circumstances

restful applies to whatever induces or contributes to rest or relaxation.

a quiet restful vacation

Examples of restful in a Sentence

It's restful by the stream.

I hope you had a relaxing and restful weekend.

Recent Examples on the Web

Research shows that taking genuinely restful breaks, not just sleep, leads to better work productivity, life satisfaction, and even longer lifespan. —Jodie Cook, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2025

In a recent study, lower tryptophan intake was associated with poorer sleep quality, thus highlighting its potential role in supporting restful sleep.3 However, for these amino acids to work, peanut butter needs to be paired with a source of carbohydrates like a piece of whole grain bread or fruit. —Caitlin Pagán, Verywell Health, 13 Aug. 2025

But inside is an oasis of fragrant spices and a restful decor. —The Denver Post, Denver Post, 1 Aug. 2025

Semi-hidden along the way is the restful Kumamoto En Japanese Tea Garden, a gift from San Antonio's sister city, Kumamoto. —Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for restful

• westphal

Kids Definition

restful

adjective

rest·​ful ˈrest-fəl 

: giving or suggesting rest : quiet

a restful scene

restfully

-fə-lē 

adverb

restfulness noun