Synonyms of aplomb

aplomb

noun

ə-ˈpläm 

1

as in composure

evenness of emotions or temper

you've handled a difficult situation with perfect aplomb

Synonyms & Similar Words

• composure
• sangfroid
• calmness
• equanimity
• coolness
• imperturbability
• self-possession
• collectedness
• serenity
• equilibrium
• confidence
• placidity
• poise
• assurance
• countenance
• self-assurance
• tranquility
• cool
• tranquilness
• self-confidence
• repose
• composedness
• self-assuredness
• self-composedness
• indifference
• unconcern
• impassivity
• self-trust
• numbness
• apathy
• phlegm
• detachment
• easygoingness
• insensibility
• laid-backness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• agitation
• concern
• perturbation
• anxiety
• care
• apprehension
• uneasiness
• solicitude
• disquiet
• worry
• discomposure
• alarm
• nervousness
• apprehensiveness
• excitability
• anxiousness
• disturbance
• excitableness

2

as in confidence

great faith in oneself or one's abilities

carried herself with the dignity and aplomb of a born leader

Synonyms & Similar Words

• confidence
• composure
• assurance
• self-assurance
• self-assuredness
• self-confidence
• pridefulness
• pride
• self-trust
• smugness
• hubris
• vanity
• equanimity
• pomposity
• cockiness
• self-esteem
• complacency
• self-satisfaction
• overconfidence
• pompousness
• self-complacency
• coolness
• conceitedness
• self-importance
• calmness
• self-admiration
• vainglory
• ego
• complacence
• egoism
• hauteur
• self-opinion
• self-content
• imperiousness
• conceit
• egotism
• self-conceit
• superciliousness
• superiority
• self-contentment
• self-possession
• self-glorification
• self-applause
• haughtiness
• self-consequence
• vaingloriousness
• self-assumption
• loftiness
• presumptuousness
• peremptoriness
• lordliness
• huffiness
• assumption
• pretentiousness
• bumptiousness
• self-poise
• self-partiality
• toploftiness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• diffidence
• insecurity
• doubt
• apprehension
• self-doubt
• misgiving
• self-distrust

Synonym Chooser

How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, confidence, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of aplomb

Organizing security across multiple operating systems can be a hassle, but McAfee tackles that with aplomb. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 21 Sep. 2026

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s transportation reporter, Sara Gregory, did a wonderful write-up of this feat, which drew aplomb and attention from MARTA itself. — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 20 Sep. 2026

The character draws comparisons with the iconic Billy Mack, who Nighy played with aplomb in Love Actually. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026

Embroidered suits have become increasingly commonplace on the red carpet, with Jeff Hiller and Alan Cumming both pulling them off with aplomb. — Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2026

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