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 Things are more placid now—in 1929, the estate became Longshore Beach and Country Club, which was acquired by the town of Westport in 1960. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 8 Oct. 2026 In that, the vinyl panel turns the 18th-century style on its head, becoming a subversive counterweight to its typically placid, pastoral energy. — Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 30 Sep. 2026 The tone continues to be placid, the plunky marimba and steel drum score remains the same, and the performances only grow to feel even more remarkably lived-in as the severity of the situation clicks into place. — David Ehrlich, IndieWire, 4 Sep. 2026 Appropriately so, given the placid recent range and the clockwork mechanics of sector rotation and low-correlation restraining index-level volatility. — Michael Santoli, CNBC, 31 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for placid
Recent Examples of Synonyms for placid
Adjective
  • This silent meditation happened again when the Mechanical Clock Prize was presented, once more setting the audience in a serene horological mindset.
    — Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 8 Nov. 2026
  • The spa The resort’s Forbes Travel Guide Triple Five-Star Spa is a standout, inspired by the Caribbean Sea and featuring ESPA and 111SKIN treatments, vibroacoustic wellness beds, steam rooms, and serene relaxation lounges.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Bedrooms are tranquil and restorative, with clean lines, balconies, and mountain views that create a sense of space.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 9 July 2026
  • Located right across the water from Miami, Key Biscayne is filled with tranquil experiences in nature, delicious dining options with incredible views of the water, and even a little bit of history to explore.
    — Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 13 June 2026
Adjective
  • Fresh off a max contract extension, Reaves has had a quiet yet ruthlessly efficient start to the year in Doncic’s shadow.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 9 Nov. 2026
  • And at a time of national reflection, Kate’s wardrobe offered its own quiet tribute to those who came before her.
    — Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 8 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • Thanks to its position on the western side of the island, the water is quite calm, even during the windier months.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Nov. 2026
  • Winds are calm, becoming east-northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
    — Garfield Hylton, The Orlando Sentinel, 5 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • After the peaceful march in Barcelona, some protesters started to smash storefronts of brand-name stores on Paseo de Gracia, a main shopping boulevard.
    — Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 12 Nov. 2026
  • The violence erupted after a largely peaceful march as Spain experienced its first general strike in 14 years, with workers demanding relief from skyrocketing rents and the rising cost of living.
    — Jasmine Baehr, FOXNews.com, 11 Nov. 2026
Adjective
  • In a city crowded with glossy international properties, this is classic, composed and home-grown, with real cultural depth—one half looking confidently to the future, the other carefully honouring its design legacy.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Nov. 2026
  • The British singer, 27, composed and co-wrote the lyrics with Bastian Langebæk and Max Wolfgang, according to the song credits on Spotify.
    — Alexandra Del Rosario, Los Angeles Times, 5 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • There’s a delicacy to Sebastián, a hushed fearfulness, that sets him apart from his new comrades.
    — Justin Chang, New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2026
  • Set the scene Despite being just a stone’s throw from Oxford Street, the hotel has a hushed air and a seriously exclusive crowd.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Placid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/placid. Accessed 13 Nov. 2026.

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