tranquil

adjective

tran·​quil ˈtraŋ-kwəl 

ˈtran-

1

a

: free from agitation of mind or spirit

a tranquil self-assurance

b

: free from disturbance or turmoil

a tranquil scene

2

: unvarying in aspect : steady, stable

tranquilly

ˈtraŋ-kwə-lē 

ˈtran-

adverb

tranquilness noun

Synonyms

• quiet
• peaceful
• serene
• placid
• restful

Choose the Right Synonym for tranquil

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 tranquil in a Sentence

the house was once again tranquil after the kids moved outside to play

though she should have been upset, she felt oddly tranquil upon learning that she would not be receiving the scholarship

Recent Examples on the Web

The tranquil space is great for catching glimpses of the tall, hoofed residents or simply unwinding. —Demarco Williams, Forbes.com, 18 July 2025

Fallingwater, in Pennsylvania’s hilly Laurel Highlands, is perched above a tranquil waterfall and was built with locally quarried sandstone. —AFAR Media, 14 July 2025

The estate’s five acres of gardens, developed over more than a decade, recreate an outdoor haven true to the time period with vibrant blooms and tranquil pathways. ​Smooth Rapids offers a full-service outdoor experience with kayaking, camping, and dining all in one scenic riverside location. —Korrin Bishop, Southern Living, 13 July 2025

In the tranquil foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains, campers spent the week playing games, making friends and strengthening their faith at the Quo Vadis Catholic Boys Camp. —Paul Bersebach, Oc Register, 12 July 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tranquill, from Latin tranquillus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

tranquil

adjective

tran·​quil ˈtraŋ-kwəl 

ˈtran-

: free from disturbance or turmoil : quiet

tranquilly

-kwə-lē 

adverb