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
  • The back line compresses space, the midfield disrupts passing lanes and Ferree has commanded his box with composure beyond his years.
    Eddie Brown, San Diego Union-Tribune, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The Cavs regained their offensive composure after the break, opening the second half with a 14-6 run that cut Boston’s lead to 12.
    Zack Cox, Boston Herald, 8 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • No doubt that playful warmth played a part in him being cast as Luffy, a hilariously nonchalant, yet utterly sincere would-be pirate.
    Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 10 Mar. 2026
  • To be so nonchalant about that.
    Outside Online, Outside Online, 4 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • August 23 – September 22 Clear agreements start with calm words.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 15 Mar. 2026
  • On top of the pool and beach, where the sea is calm and swimmable, the resort has an incredibly engaging kids program called Nature Discovery, where older kids can go sailing and mountain biking while younger kids can learn to sail and take kitesurfing lessons.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Kogane opened in an Alhambra strip mall in late 2021, the two of them stationed on opposite sides of a serene bar.
    Bill Addison, Los Angeles Times, 12 Mar. 2026
  • Sprinkling in patterns like dainty florals or serene colorways like marigold can give you a sense of grounding.
    Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 12 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The 1995 film version of this exchange between Charlotte and Lizzy, in which the former is portrayed cooly by the unflappable Lucy Scott, challenges the audience’s ability to empathize with Charlotte’s pragmatism, and seems to encourage us to side with Elizabeth’s dismay.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 9 Mar. 2026
  • Horschel consistently chatted up and down the fairways with playing partner Ryan Fox, an affable, unflappable 39-year-old New Zealander.
    Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • At the same time, his tech-entrepreneur client—a longtime friend who also recently decamped from the West Coast—asked that the 2,063-square-foot bachelor pad function as a refuge: plush, composed, and calm in the middle of the city.
    Ian Volner, Architectural Digest, 26 Feb. 2026
  • And so Ekman-Larsson elevated his game and played some of the most physical and composed hockey of his career as the Leafs stumbled.
    Joshua Kloke, New York Times, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • What makes this chaos delightful rather than annoying is Robyn’s unshakable sense of control, grounded in pop principles and thoughtful craft.
    Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 11 Mar. 2026
  • The actor harnesses raw physicality, steely nerve and unshakable honor to portray an energizing guy taking on an empire.
    Brian Truitt, USA Today, 9 Mar. 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 17 Mar. 2026.

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