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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 Benjamin Moore's Horizon is a sophisticated off-white hue that sets a serene and refreshing tone thanks to its delicate blue and gray undertones. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025 Even Kananaskis Village—the region’s hub with a hotel, restaurants, a spa, a general store, and an outfitting company—is in a serene valley surrounded by trails. Lisa Kadane, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2025 The model’s glam featured a serene makeup look with her hair pulled back into a tight chignon in a slicked style, a nod to one of the season’s leading hair trends. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2025 As the woman walks to the back of her yard, the camera pans to reveal a serene river flowing directly behind her home, offering an idyllic and peaceful view that has quickly won over viewers. Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • The Chicago Bears were relatively quiet ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2025
  • Hotel Fasano São Paulo Itaim Consistently top-notch, from the beds to the dining, Hotel Fasano exudes quiet luxury.
    Jade Moyano, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • With over 20 years of experience, Melissa has helped families transform chaos into calm using compassion, clarity, and proven behavioral strategies.
    Maria Williams, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Peak season is over, meaning the crowds are gone, the water feels calmer, the restaurants are more enjoyable, and the sunsets last just a little bit longer.
    Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • From a kitchen inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese design to a colorful yet tranquil Victorian bathroom, Drift Interiors + Architecture can bring any style to life.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025
  • Long, flowing lines and a neutral palette create calm, tranquil vibes throughout, while expansive windows invite light in and offer views out.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • On campus, Christopher Benton, 48, was arrested and later booked into Alameda County’s Santa Rita Jail for refusing to leave after being asked to do so by police, obstruction and coming on to campus with the intent of interfering with peaceful activities, Mogulof said.
    Sharon Bernstein, Sacbee.com, 12 Nov. 2025
  • But, in a year that has already seen multiple political assassinations, the deployment of the National Guard to American cities, and masked agents of the federal government hauling people off the streets and into unmarked vans, the prospects for a peaceful anniversary appear remote.
    Jill Lepore, New Yorker, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Senne Lammens continuing his composed start to his United career could at least counteract those types of chances for Brighton, while Amorim’s defenders will need to be astute to the movement of Hurzeler’s front-line.
    Laurie Whitwell, New York Times, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Only on particularly bumpy tarmac did the GTS-spec suspension become too jarring with the adaptive dampers stiffened up in sport mode, but switching them to normal offered the best of both worlds—excellent, composed body control and tuning that ironed out imperfections remarkably well.
    Peter Nelson, Robb Report, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Some time before the series’ start, a virus swept the globe and made everyone content and placid.
    Bethy Squires, Vulture, 22 Oct. 2025
  • In a small town like Harding, a crime involving local children of local families shatters the relatively placid and usually numb routines of daily life.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 16 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Consider staying here for a honeymoon, a romantic winter getaway, or a restful solo trip down south.
    Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Start with the basics by introducing healthy practices like getting enough exercise, eating a balanced diet and getting enough restful sleep.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The collected premium cushions downside risk and enhances the effective yield on capital at risk.
    Michael Khouw, CNBC, 27 Oct. 2025
  • The collected data feeds into Cyvl’s Infrastructure Intelligence Platform, where proprietary AI algorithms assess conditions down to the smallest crack or sign of deficiency.
    Jason Ma, Fortune, 19 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 14 Nov. 2025.

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