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 In a previous university blog post, Majumdar compared this finding to the brain flushing out byproducts that build up during active, wakeful moments, allowing for a more restful night’s sleep. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 9 Sep. 2026 Tart cherries are also rich in anthocyanins, plant compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce muscle soreness and support more restful sleep. — Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 17 Aug. 2026 Then there are omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation and support brain health, creating the perfect environment for restful sleep. — Mura Dominko, Martha Stewart, 9 Aug. 2026 Peridot is believed to bring good health, restful sleep, and peace to relationships, by balancing emotions and mind. — Kelsey Stiegman, InStyle, 7 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for restful
Recent Examples of Synonyms for restful
Adjective
  • With the whizbang action long in the series’ rearview, this quiet road trip proves its emotional centerpiece, as Noah confesses both his true nature and his desire to be better — the conflict of his programming.
    — Siddhant Adlakha, Vulture, 5 Oct. 2026
  • As the market tries to keep the momentum going, a quiet calendar of earnings and economic reports awaits in the week ahead.
    — Zev Fima, CNBC, 4 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • The annual prize was created in 1980 by Swedish-German philanthropist Jakob von Uexkull, who wanted to honor work that contributes to a more just and peaceful world.
    — ABC News, ABC News, 30 Sep. 2026
  • Inspired by research showing that thoughtful architecture and design can help with healing, the couple set out to make their home as peaceful and creative as possible.
    — Lisa Boone, Los Angeles Times, 30 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Natural light streams into the galleries, ensuring an atmosphere that's always serene and never stuffy.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Oct. 2026
  • Some at the memorial took solace in seeing so many like-minded devotees come out to the serene mountain setting to remember the avian matriarch.
    — Lila Seidman, Los Angeles Times, 4 Oct. 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
  • 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Restful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/restful. Accessed 5 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!