Definition of serenenext
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Synonym Chooser

How is the word serene different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of serene are calm, peaceful, placid, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When could calm be used to replace serene?

The meanings of calm and serene largely overlap; however, calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than serene?

While the synonyms peaceful and serene are close in meaning, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When would placid be a good substitute for serene?

Although the words placid and serene have much in common, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is it sensible to use tranquil instead of serene?

The words tranquil and serene are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of serene The Outer Banks is known for serene waterfronts, wildlife and historical attractions, including Jockey’s Ridge State Park, home to the tallest living sand dune system on the Atlantic Coast, as highlighted in the travel rankings. Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026 This vivid reproduction of a Van Gogh masterpiece features delicate almond blossoms that will have a serene effect in the bathroom. Bestreviews, Mercury News, 6 July 2026 Hagan Community Park in Rancho Cordova transformed from a serene hangout spot into an enormous fun-fest fit for a nation’s 250th birthday on Friday. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026 Her doctors searched for ways to manage her stress by exposing her to various activities, including video games, serene Icelandic landscapes and an aerial silks performance. Steven Vargas, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • And waterfront towns like North Bay Village and Bay Harbor Islands that were once known as quiet working-class suburbs are getting facelifts with new ultra-luxury condo buildings.
    Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026
  • Instead, the young man who lived with his partner and daughter was described by neighbors as quiet and reserved.
    Maria Santana, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • The ministry instructed citizens to remain calm and head to the nearest safe space.
    Jomana Karadsheh, CNN Money, 19 July 2026
  • My work became not just watching the Zeitgeist within the company but learning how to contain it—reading through messages, distilling the emotional temperature, and crafting executive responses meant to absorb shock and restore calm.
    Claire Stapleton, New Yorker, 18 July 2026
Adjective
  • Bedrooms are tranquil and restorative, with clean lines, balconies, and mountain views that create a sense of space.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 July 2026
  • Located right across the water from Miami, Key Biscayne is filled with tranquil experiences in nature, delicious dining options with incredible views of the water, and even a little bit of history to explore.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 13 June 2026
Adjective
  • Gardens and Green Spaces Fairhope’s slower pace is best appreciated in its peaceful gardens and parks.
    Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026
  • Often nestled in lush mountains or on a peaceful lake, the bucolic and nature-filled settings of sleep-away camps will always remain ingrained in our memories.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • Replacement Ryunosuke Ito, plucked from Meiji University, had a composed debut, including laying on a try for Matsunaga, who was five for five off the tee.
    ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026
  • After opening the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay in Los Angeles, the United States followed it with a composed 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle.
    Jon Root OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • An upper Midwest lake house often conjures images of a cozy cabin with knotty pine paneling, a fieldstone fireplace, and a dock stretching into the placid water.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 13 July 2026
  • The Alps rise up in the distance and the water's surface is placid.
    Ari Daniel, NPR, 9 July 2026
Adjective
  • After a recent resort-wide refresh, redesigned guest rooms and suites ooze with coastal charm and serve as restful spaces after busy days by the water.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 18 July 2026
  • Higher levels of both hormones promote restful sleep and reduce frequent nighttime awakenings when levels fall, other symptoms like night sweats appear and further disrupt rest.
    Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 July 2026
Adjective
  • The collected luggage includes roller bags, duffel bags, suitcases and backpacks.
    Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026
  • That changed in 2018, when the Council passed Helen Rosenthal’s bill encouraging New Yorkers to report idling violations by requiring the city to publicize the process and pay them 25% of any collected fines for their efforts.
    Chris Hartmann, New York Daily News, 16 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 22 Jul. 2026.

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