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calm

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noun

calm

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verb

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of calm are peaceful, placid, serene, and tranquil. While all these words 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

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than calm?

In some situations, the words peaceful and calm are roughly equivalent. However, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When might placid be a better fit than calm?

The words placid and calm can be used in similar contexts, but placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When would serene be a good substitute for calm?

Although the words serene and calm have much in common, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of calm?

The synonyms tranquil and calm are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 calm
Adjective
Inside, natural materials, tactile finishes, and bespoke details create a sense of calm, while floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to terraces and, in larger residences, private pools, blurring the line between indoors and out. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 Sep. 2025 Early mornings and late afternoons tend to have calmer waters and less boat traffic, making for better viewing conditions. Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 18 Sep. 2025
Noun
To say Kallmeyer delivered on calm would be an understatement. Libby Page, Vogue, 16 Sep. 2025 Musk seemed to rule out the possibility of national calm. David Ingram, NBC news, 16 Sep. 2025
Verb
An IndyStar investigation published earlier this month revealed a near-constant fear of crime at Laurelwood Apartments and IHA's failure to do much to calm residents. Alysa Guffey, IndyStar, 22 Sep. 2025 Consequence eventually stepped in to try to calm things down. Armon Sadler, VIBE.com, 22 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for calm
Recent Examples of Synonyms for calm
Adjective
  • In certain corners of the Internet, people have spent the past year picking apart the Swedish influencer turned fashion mogul’s $200 cardigans, her quiet-luxury aesthetic, her linen-and-curtain-bangs image, and—oh yes—those toilet-cleaning allegations.
    Stephanie McNeal, Glamour, 24 Sep. 2025
  • The potential series will center on Violet Sorrengail, whose plans for a quiet life are upended when her mother, a military general, orders her to join the brutal Basgiath War College and become one of several hundred candidates vying to become dragon riders.
    Rick Porter, HollywoodReporter, 24 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Meanwhile the interiors feature a serene color palette, premium materials, and panoramic windows that invite natural light and breathtaking views.
    Bill Springer, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025
  • Located on the state’s southeastern coast, just 30 minutes north of glitzy West Palm Beach, Jupiter enjoys a slower, more serene pace that’s perfect for lazy days of relaxing with a view of the water.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 19 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • But not everyone agreed that this mom would be better off picking her battles before rushing into an argument that could cost her a peaceful relationship with her in-laws.
    Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 23 Sep. 2025
  • Every worker deserves a peaceful commute to work.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 23 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • So having the chance to kind of feel a little bit at home, a little peace, is nice.
    David O'Brien, New York Times, 24 Sep. 2025
  • Israel's military campaign in Gaza has only shown signs of intensifying over recent months, and efforts to negotiate a peace appear all but stalled.
    Shannon K. Kingston, ABC News, 23 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Trump does it to soothe his ego.
    Jesse Edwards, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 Sep. 2025
  • Infrared rays can also penetrate deeper into tissues, possibly helping to soothe muscles and joints.
    Omaid Homayun, Forbes.com, 19 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Boasting striking geological features and containing one of the world’s richest fossil beds, Badlands National Park in South Dakota draws visitors from across the globe to witness its rugged beauty.
    Dave Parfitt, USA Today, 23 Sep. 2025
  • The country club contains a golf course, a wedding venue and a restaurant.
    Jessica Gorman, ABC News, 22 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Tucked along the Current River, Blue Spring is a tranquil, can’t-miss spot in the Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
    Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 31 Aug. 2025
  • Water features are a key component thanks to their tranquil sound and rhythmic flow.
    Laura Fenton, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • The second thing that makes an impression is how composed Sartori is—remarkably Zen even—mere hours before a major show.
    Naomi Rougeau, Robb Report, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The vocabulary being used by Qatar’s prime minister is strong, evocative and damning, a departure from his usual composed response to the incessant twists and turns of trying to end the 23-month war in Gaza.
    Paula Hancocks, CNN Money, 10 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Calm.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/calm. Accessed 26 Sep. 2025.

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