Definition of placidnext
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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of placid are calm, peaceful, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is it sensible to use calm instead of placid?

The synonyms calm and placid are sometimes interchangeable, but calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

In what contexts can peaceful take the place of placid?

The meanings of peaceful and placid largely overlap; however, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When is serene a more appropriate choice than placid?

While the synonyms serene and placid are close in meaning, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of placid?

While in some cases nearly identical to placid, tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

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 placid The latter were sometimes embroidered on his signature woolen cardigans and shawls bearing stylized versions of placid landscapes, bandana patterns or geometric motifs. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025 The main house is every bit the grand country residence, with vast reception rooms, an orangery overlooking the placid waters of Lower Lough Erne, and a kitchen that’s equal parts stately and practical. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 25 Sep. 2025 Though many visitors to Scotland seek out hiking and walking trails far from the buzzing big cities, in fact, Glasgow and Edinburgh are replete with placid and picturesque green spaces. Jeanine Barone, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Daedone briefly looked stricken, but, even so, a placid smile remained on her face. Thessaly La Force, New Yorker, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for placid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for placid
Adjective
  • Honda says that altogether, these enhancements reduce interior noise by two or three decibels, which doesn’t sound like a lot, but the result is indeed a serene ride.
    Adam Ismail, The Drive, 29 Jan. 2026
  • Pantone’s 2026 Color of the Year is 11-4201 Cloud Dancer, a serene off-white that’s meant to promote relaxation and creativity.
    Asia London Palomba, The Spruce, 29 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In the same way, the entire gallery space invites us into the thoughtful and tranquil world of Alfredo Castañeda.
    Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Jan. 2026
  • The entrance cleverly separates hotel guests from those who are there to dine, so the check-in area is always uncrowded and tranquil.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Below are five actions that may seem quiet but can significantly increase your chances of promotion in the first quarter, along with how to put them into practice.
    Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • The cold, quiet pattern continues Tuesday in Minnesota.
    Joseph Dames, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Crandon Park Beach Key Biscayne, Florida A two-mile stretch of soft white sand in Key Biscayne, family-friendly Crandon Park Beach consistently earns praise for its beauty and calm waters thanks to an offshore sandbar.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Simple, Purposeful Spaces Warm minimalism creates calm, simple spaces by keeping a room clean and clutter-free.
    Erica Puisis, The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The mayor called on the community to remain peaceful in the aftermath.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
  • But once inside, as the crackling fire quickly warms you up, there’s no better feeling after hours on the trail than dropping your backpack on the floor, taking off your boots and settling in for a few days of peaceful escape.
    The Denver Post, Denver Post, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • When the center returned to Minnesota, Finch saw a player who was more composed and sure of how to use his boundless energy within the context of the game.
    Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 15 Jan. 2026
  • The usually very composed DiCaprio is going viral for getting playful during one of the show's commercial breaks, as he was captured laughing, smiling, and doing a very hammy impression of a person who was off camera.
    Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The 12-track effort is full of wide, sprawling arrangements that segue from hushed and contemplative to liberated.
    Sophie Williams, Billboard, 28 Jan. 2026
  • Omniscience gives way to a motley chorus of inner monologues and hushed conversations, kitchen table squabbles, restless thoughts, wistful memories.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 22 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Placid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/placid. Accessed 2 Feb. 2026.

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