Definition of composurenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun composure contrast with its synonyms?

The words equanimity and sangfroid are common synonyms of composure. While all three words mean "evenness of mind under stress," composure implies the controlling of emotional or mental agitation by an effort of will or as a matter of habit.

maintaining his composure even under hostile questioning

When is equanimity a more appropriate choice than composure?

Although the words equanimity and composure have much in common, equanimity suggests a habit of mind that is only rarely disturbed under great strain.

accepted her troubles with equanimity

Where would sangfroid be a reasonable alternative to composure?

While in some cases nearly identical to composure, sangfroid implies great coolness and steadiness under strain.

handled the situation with professional sangfroid

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 composure The overarching story of these Finals has been that of the better team defeating itself, juxtaposed with the more experienced team keeping its composure. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 12 June 2026 In the weeks leading up to his imprisonment, Abu Safiya fought to maintain his composure as Israeli forces surrounded the hospital, releasing grainy video dispatches from the facility under siege. Julia Frankel, Los Angeles Times, 11 June 2026 Temperance is the virtue of moderation, visible when players maintain composure under pressure. Mary Crossan, Forbes.com, 11 June 2026 His composure in possession is matched by aggression without it. Jay Harris, New York Times, 10 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for composure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for composure
Noun
  • David Raya came and collected a corner with typical calmness, using a quick throw to release Martin Odegaard into a four-on-four counter-attack.
    James McNicholas, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2025
  • There is a calmness in the way Bergert carries himself and an unflappable charisma that is quickly becoming his superpower.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 18 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • Think of this condo as the perfect mix of city life and serenity.
    Kelsey Mulvey, Vogue, 9 June 2026
  • Flagship Real Estate Advisors Visitors come to Watch Hill not to party or be seen, but to enjoy the serenity of a serenely private coastal retreat.
    Mary Forgione, Forbes.com, 4 June 2026
Noun
  • For a keeper who’s only played 23 career MLS games, his coolness between the pipes stands out.
    Braidon Nourse, Denver Post, 11 June 2026
  • Bain said following Thursday’s heat, an offshore jetstream flow that has compressed the marine layer and the Bay Area’s natural coolness will give way to the usual onshore flow.
    Rick Hurd, Mercury News, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • The whole equilibrium of the show was thrown off without Leighton bringing her signature sass (and questionable fashion choices) to Essex College.
    EW Staff, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Dec. 2025
  • The war upended this equilibrium.
    MOHAMED ELGOHARI, Foreign Affairs, 1 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • Matt Newberry, the director of global talent, handled the negotiations and pointed to the development of other goalkeepers such as Caoimhin Kelleher and Vitezslav Jaros when offering assurances for the future.
    Gregg Evans, New York Times, 25 July 2025
  • The market rebounded, and Blackstone is back to honoring 100% of repurchase requests, but there’s little assurance that a similar situation won’t result in a future crash.
    Hank Tucker, Forbes.com, 24 July 2025
Noun
  • Zeller writes with intelligence, compassion, equanimity, and wit.
    Gabrielle Bellot, Literary Hub, 15 July 2025
  • And the origin of aloha—ha being breath, life—calls to mind the Buddhist perception of happiness as equanimity.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Composure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/composure. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

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