Definition of nonchalantnext

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of nonchalant are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and unruffled. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

When could collected be used to replace nonchalant?

The words collected and nonchalant can be used in similar contexts, but collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When might composed be a better fit than nonchalant?

While in some cases nearly identical to nonchalant, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When is it sensible to use cool instead of nonchalant?

The words cool and nonchalant are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

Where would imperturbable be a reasonable alternative to nonchalant?

The meanings of imperturbable and nonchalant largely overlap; however, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can unruffled take the place of nonchalant?

While the synonyms unruffled and nonchalant 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 nonchalant Does this mean that the enduring collector’s item is the nonchalant bag of 2025? Christian Allaire, Vogue, 7 Dec. 2025 Vocally, the members play with this subtle, almost nonchalant expressiveness. Billboard Korea, Billboard, 26 Nov. 2025 Indeed, many tech CEOs have been openly hostile toward workers’ rights and nonchalant about their AI products’ potential impact on the already suffering job market. Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 9 Nov. 2025 Jordan Marshall isn’t nonchalant about anything. Austin Meek, New York Times, 2 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for nonchalant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for nonchalant
casual
Adjective
  • The restaurant employs roughly 80 people and has long been known for its casual atmosphere and accessibility in a town increasingly defined by high-end shops and restaurants.
    Spencer Wilson, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Marvel's first series for Disney+ proved to be a home run, for long-term MCU fans and casual viewers alike.
    Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 26 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Nonchalant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/nonchalant. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

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