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 imperturbable 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 Minsky is the very opposite: chipper, imperturbable, and with impeccable manners. Jill Lepore, The New Yorker, 30 Sep. 2024 Both were introverts by nature and, for the most part, imperturbable on the court. Cindy Shmerler, New York Times, 24 May 2024 Susie Glass, the crime boss Eddie reports to, is essentially a carbon copy of Michelle Dockery’s Rosalind, from her cherry-red lips to her sky-high stilettos to her generally imperturbable air. Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 26 Feb. 2024 See All Example Sentences for imperturbable
Recent Examples of Synonyms for imperturbable
Adjective
  • At half-time, as Rayan Cherki enjoyed 15 minutes of nonchalant showboating, an altogether more ferocious warm-up was taking place just across the pitch.
    Jordan Campbell, New York Times, 27 June 2025
  • Actress January Jones channeled Isabel Marant’s nonchalant French-girl style by wearing an oversized sweater and cutoff jean shorts to a dinner hosted by the designer.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 12 June 2025
Adjective
  • There’s something wonderfully timeless about pushing off from shore in a canoe as the paddles dip quietly through calm water as dragonflies skim by.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
  • This dual nature creates two very different beach experiences: the lagoon side, with its calm, shallow waters, is perfect for children and stand-up paddleboarding, while the oceanfront waves are great for surfing and bodyboarding.
    Kathleen Peddicord, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Big Momma the alligator is one of his muses, as are curious bobcats and the serene landscape.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 June 2025
  • Looking for a serene beach getaway with lots of nature and no crowds?
    Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • With his gravelly voice and unflappable demeanor, Ackles makes a more than capable action hero.
    Dave Nemetz, TVLine, 23 June 2025
  • Three have been the results of walk-offs as a previously unflappable bullpen is struggling, particularly the past two weeks, with the offense unable to put games away early.
    Dan Hayes, New York Times, 18 June 2025
Adjective
  • Despite suffering from a severe injury at 13,800 feet, the climber remained responsive and composed.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 9 July 2025
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
Adjective
  • Self-advocacy starts by cultivating a shock-absorbent, insulated core, where your worth, values, and strengths are kept as safe and unshakable as possible.
    Dr. Ella F. Washington, Forbes.com, 24 June 2025
  • Although some tents collapsed under the weight of the weather, and attendees were forced to seek shelter more than once, the energy was still unshakable.
    Amber Corrine, VIBE.com, 20 June 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • Instead, Kvitova produced a nerveless performance, finishing off the match with her first ace of the final.
    Danielle Rossingh, Forbes, 27 June 2021

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Imperturbable.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/imperturbable. Accessed 12 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on imperturbable

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!