Definition of restfulnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective restful differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of restful are comfortable, cozy, easy, and snug. While all these words mean "enjoying or providing a position of contentment and security," restful applies to whatever induces or contributes to rest or relaxation.

a quiet restful vacation

When could comfortable be used to replace restful?

The synonyms comfortable and restful are sometimes interchangeable, but comfortable applies to anything that encourages serenity, well-being, or complacency as well as physical ease.

started feeling comfortable in our new surroundings

When is it sensible to use cozy instead of restful?

The words cozy and restful can be used in similar contexts, but cozy suggests warmth, shelter, assured ease, and friendliness.

a cozy neighborhood coffee shop

In what contexts can easy take the place of restful?

Although the words easy and restful have much in common, easy implies relief from or absence of anything likely to cause discomfort or constraint.

living in easy circumstances

Where would snug be a reasonable alternative to restful?

The meanings of snug and restful largely overlap; however, snug suggests having just enough space for comfort and safety but no more.

a snug little cottage

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 restful Higher levels of both hormones promote restful sleep and reduce frequent nighttime awakenings when levels fall, other symptoms like night sweats appear and further disrupt rest. Hanna Wickes, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 17 July 2026 The interior was a restful combination of black walls and patinated steel, with polished concrete underfoot. Anthony Lane, New Yorker, 13 July 2026 There is also a terrace with firepits off the main building for long, restful evenings spent reminiscing over a drink. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 10 July 2026 Mackenzie Hickson graduated from Spelman College this spring and looked forward to a restful summer before starting her graduate degree classes this fall at Emory University. Nila Roper, AJC.com, 9 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for restful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for restful
Adjective
  • My favorite way to spend an afternoon, though, was borrowing one of the hotel's bicycles and pedaling around South of Fifth, where quiet residential streets quickly give way to cafés, the marina, and the fun buzz of Ocean Drive.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 July 2026
  • For gardens, Shosei-en is a quiet surprise so close to Kyoto Station that most visitors walk right past it, a strolling garden of ponds, bridges, and teahouses that makes a perfect first or last stop in the city.
    Shivani Vora, Forbes.com, 29 July 2026
Adjective
  • This peaceful apartment sits on the first floor of an authentic Basque house and is ideal for a couple traveling alone (or with a child).
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 31 July 2026
  • Kim Kardashian is enjoying some peaceful time on the lake with her family this summer.
    Meg Walters, InStyle, 31 July 2026
Adjective
  • Muluk Spa is relatively compact with serene treatment rooms illuminated by flickering candle-like lights.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Aug. 2026
  • This stunning Amalfi Coast boutique hotel overlooks the Tyrrhenian Sea, and guests can enjoy their complimentary meal on a serene terrace.
    Catherine Garcia, TheWeek, 3 Aug. 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
  • Maheu and Perreault-Magny tied up briefly in the middle of the placid river with officers from the Akwesasne nation, a Tim Hortons coffee cup riding shotgun on their console.
    Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 29 July 2026
  • An upper Midwest lake house often conjures images of a cozy cabin with knotty pine paneling, a fieldstone fireplace, and a dock stretching into the placid water.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 13 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Restful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/restful. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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