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 With the tie going to extra time, the plan to give the likes of Joao Pedro, Gusto and Cucurella a comfortable and restful evening backfired anyway. Richard Sutcliffe, New York Times, 7 Mar. 2026 The cabin space invites campers in not solely by the restful promise of its near-queen-size 198 x 148-cm (78 x 58-in) double bed or the warmth of its diesel heating system, but also by the full entertainment center on the rear wall. New Atlas, 26 Feb. 2026 These geological features provide the small reptiles with hiding spots and surfaces to navigate during their active nighttime hours and restful daytime retreats. Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 25 Feb. 2026 Decluttering surfaces and refreshing your closet will also help create a more restful environment. ABC News, 25 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for restful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for restful
Adjective
  • Aside from some quiet complaints about the NCAA’s COVID-19 protocols for people sitting around the court, no one offered anything other than positive reviews.
    Mac Engel March 31, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 31 Mar. 2026
  • Despite her difficult start, Kaiko has since been recovering in her new home, with the viral video capturing a quiet but significant milestone—her first night sleeping indoors.
    Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • While the mood was generally sunny and marches largely peaceful, the third No Kings protests were an unmistakable display of political force that could reverberate in the 2026 midterms and beyond.
    Susan Page, USA Today, 29 Mar. 2026
  • One detained at Dallas demonstration While most of Saturday's rallies were peaceful, police say one person was detained at the Dallas demonstration.
    Briseida Holguin, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • This easy-access escape features serene forest scenes and sprawling views of the lake.
    Brian Higgins, Outside, 25 Mar. 2026
  • The deep southern creeks were once like this — serene, thick with fish, and loud with birds.
    Noo Saro-Wiwa, The Dial, 24 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Turning onto shady Little Road felt instantly tranquil.
    Christopher Spata, The Orlando Sentinel, 21 Mar. 2026
  • That earlier film, a languid, unsettling thriller, focused on its protagonist’s emotional breakdown during a supposedly tranquil Mediterranean vacation.
    David Sims, The Atlantic, 6 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • With a broad expanse of shallow, placid water, plus playgrounds and picnic tables, Rockport Beach makes an ideal destination for families with kids.
    Pam LeBlanc, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Mar. 2026
  • The placid romance of Hareton and young Catherine leaves us, superficially, in a peaceful, even hopeful place.
    Radhika Jones, New Yorker, 26 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Restful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/restful. Accessed 31 Mar. 2026.

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