Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of unruffled are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and nonchalant. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

When could collected be used to replace unruffled?

While in some cases nearly identical to unruffled, collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When can composed be used instead of unruffled?

While the synonyms composed and unruffled are close in meaning, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When would cool be a good substitute for unruffled?

The meanings of cool and unruffled largely overlap; however, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

When is imperturbable a more appropriate choice than unruffled?

Although the words imperturbable and unruffled have much in common, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can nonchalant take the place of unruffled?

The synonyms nonchalant and unruffled are sometimes interchangeable, but nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

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 unruffled Well, Piastri faced everything Norris encountered in his fights with Verstappen in 2024 and came out on top and unruffled. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 24 Apr. 2025 In a situation that would rattle almost anyone on their first day at a new job, Dr. Mel remains as unruffled as her ponytail braid and still doesn’t have a hair out of place at hour 12 of the shift. Jen Chaney, Vulture, 29 Mar. 2025 Liverpool’s second half comeback against Southampton left the team jubilant but not unruffled given the first-half problems. James Nalton, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 The Portfolio designer moves through the chaos like the eye of a hurricane, seemingly unruffled by his surroundings. Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019 See All Example Sentences for unruffled
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unruffled
Adjective
  • After increasing her anti-seizure medication one more time, staff noticed Ginger becoming a calmer, happier, more social cat who was increasingly able to handle more and more stimulating situations and interactions.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 31 Aug. 2025
  • The beaches in Costa Mujeres are known for being more secluded and calm, especially compared to the busier areas of Cancun.
    Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 30 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Nghia has completed several other bamboo projects in China, as well as a serene bamboo pavilion at the Venice Architecture Biennale in 2018.
    Faye Bradley, CNN Money, 28 Aug. 2025
  • Baker has the brand’s sheets in a warm hue that evokes earthy desert tones and transforms her bedroom into a serene escape.
    Nashia Baker, Architectural Digest, 27 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Wishing all of you a peaceful start to this new year.
    Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025
  • The strike force waited in armored vehicles at a staging area in Kenscoff, where a once peaceful region has been under gang attacks since the beginning of the year.
    Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 2 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Her parents, Bertram and Olga, operated a music school and composed music.
    Mike Barnes, HollywoodReporter, 4 Aug. 2025
  • Krypto maintains the decidedly unruly nature of the dog upon which he is based, a funny foil to Superman’s (played by David Corenswet) kind and composed comportment.
    Dan Heching, CNN Money, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Your publisher is preparing an edition of new and collected stories, which will come out next year.
    Cressida Leyshon, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2025
  • In Kenya, authorities blocked World signups and ordered the deletion of collected biometric data after a high court determined the company failed to meet legal standards for biometric data collection.
    Karoline Leonard, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • Water features are a key component thanks to their tranquil sound and rhythmic flow.
    Laura Fenton, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2025
  • The interface is minimal, featuring only a tranquil compass needle and gentle haptic feedback.
    Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Daedone briefly looked stricken, but, even so, a placid smile remained on her face.
    Thessaly La Force, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2025
  • The placid waters of lakes and ponds can lull waders and swimmers into a false sense of security.
    Forrest Brown, CNN Money, 21 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unruffled.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unruffled. Accessed 5 Sep. 2025.

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