imperturbability 1 of 2

Definition of imperturbabilitynext

imperturbable

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of imperturbable are collected, composed, cool, nonchalant, and unruffled. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can collected take the place of imperturbable?

The words collected and imperturbable are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When is composed a more appropriate choice than imperturbable?

Although the words composed and imperturbable have much in common, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When can cool be used instead of imperturbable?

In some situations, the words cool and imperturbable are roughly equivalent. However, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

When is it sensible to use nonchalant instead of imperturbable?

While in some cases nearly identical to imperturbable, nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

When could unruffled be used to replace imperturbable?

While the synonyms unruffled and imperturbable are close in meaning, unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

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 imperturbability
Adjective
This low-volatility ascent since April quite resembles the imperturbable rally through all of 2017. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 25 Oct. 2025 Valeska is the movie’s stabilizing presence, imperturbable even in the face of potential natural disaster. David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 25 Feb. 2025 Standing in the rostrum of the House of Representatives, a gavel in her hand and a look of imperturbable stoicism on her face, Ms. Harris officiated as the two houses of Congress met in joint session to formally count the Electoral College votes for president. Peter Baker, New York Times, 6 Jan. 2025 The team’s droll, imperturbable manager, Dave Roberts, spent much of his summer issuing medical briefings on infirm pitchers. Nicholas Dawidoff, The New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2024 See All Example Sentences for imperturbability
Recent Examples of Synonyms for imperturbability
Noun
  • Losing his composure is not his style.
    Jared Weiss, New York Times, 11 May 2026
  • The briefing was different in the sense that Rubio effectively answered foreign policy questions while maintaining a lighthearted, playful composure with the press corps.
    David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 9 May 2026
Adjective
  • Snelling recalled telling Carpenter, who responded with a rather nonchalant question.
    ABC News, ABC News, 8 May 2026
  • With all due respect to lace shorts, nonchalant track shorts are already the most coveted shorts of the moment.
    Tatiana Ojea, Glamour, 3 May 2026
Adjective
  • Your calm precision can keep the whole plan from wobbling.
    Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 17 May 2026
  • The outset of war finds her wary yet calm, and our knowledge of her composure under siege means that all following emotional displays shake us like miniature earthquakes.
    Sophie Monks Kaufman, IndieWire, 16 May 2026
Adjective
  • Grab a cinnamon croissant at Birley Bakery or a lox bagel at Eli’s and eat it on a bench near the serene Conservatory Water with its model boats.
    Riza Cruz, Vogue, 14 May 2026
  • Priced at $38 million, the home will include serene gardens, a spa, and tea room.
    Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • With favorites falling to the wayside all over the undulating greens at Aronimink Golf Club, the ever-unflappable Scheffler sits atop the leaderboard after the opening day’s golf in Philadelphia.
    Thomas Schlachter, CNN Money, 15 May 2026
  • Eighteen years later, McCarthy is a far more unflappable man.
    Michael Silver, New York Times, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • McIlroy overcame some early inconsistency to put together a composed round, while Burns leaned on excellent ball-striking to match him at the top.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 10 Apr. 2026
  • Before Tuesday night, Konate had looked much more composed and commanding.
    James Pearce, New York Times, 11 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Jackie Young racks up 3s, dimes and steals with an unshakable cool.
    Steven Louis Goldstein, New York Times, 8 May 2026
  • Lauren, Kawakubo, Yamamoto—they’re a powerful trinity, all possessing unshakable visions that continue to shape culture.
    Laird Borrelli-Persson, Vogue, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • His eagerness to get on the ball, even in his own half, the two nerveless penalties, and the blistering finish for his third goal would all suggest not.
    Cerys Jones, New York Times, 8 Feb. 2026
  • As did the nerveless manner in which the striker — who turns 38 in March — sent goalkeeper Harry Tyrer the wrong way from the spot to clinch another three points.
    Richard Sutcliffe, The Athletic, 9 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Imperturbability.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/imperturbability. Accessed 20 May. 2026.

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