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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of serene are calm, peaceful, placid, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When could calm be used to replace serene?

The meanings of calm and serene largely overlap; however, calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than serene?

While the synonyms peaceful and serene are close in meaning, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When would placid be a good substitute for serene?

Although the words placid and serene have much in common, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is it sensible to use tranquil instead of serene?

The words tranquil and serene are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 serene Le Spa Park Hyatt Marrakech offers a serene sanctuary that blends elegance with Moroccan traditions. World Of Hyatt, AFAR Media, 9 June 2025 Where To Stay Kaiya, new serene beachfront rentals on Inlet Beach, designed in a Mediterranean style with outdoor courtyards and private pools. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 8 June 2025 The serene, neutral-toned pop-up will run through June 26 and offers a hands-on introduction to Birkenstock’s Care Essentials line, which first launched in late 2024. Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 29 May 2025 Thank goodness the architects of the serene Richelieu wing of the Louvre understood that the most elegant way to experience the outdoors is from inside. Caity Weaver, The Atlantic, 5 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • Without it, people go quiet, engagement drops and growth stalls.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Young visitors will enjoy the splash pad and water slide, while guests ages 18 and older are welcome to relax in the quiet adults-only pool and hot tub.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • These calm and gentle activities by the sea have restorative benefits and are increasingly featured as part of wellness retreats.
    Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 16 June 2025
  • The protests, which were mostly calm and peaceful, were held in opposition to President Donald Trump's policies and coincided with the controversial parade for the U.S. Army's 250th anniversary in Washington, D.C.
    Thao Nguyen, USA Today, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Buyers are moving away from light and airy tones, favoring deeper hues that feel modern, tranquil, and organic.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 17 June 2025
  • Mercedes uses rich wood trim, white Nappa leather, white silk, and polished aluminum to create an atmosphere that's both tranquil and glamorous.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 16 June 2025
Adjective
  • Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful, and U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed that Tehran is not actively pursuing a bomb.
    Jon Gambrell, Fortune, 26 June 2025
  • Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2025
Adjective
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • McIlroy looked composed and steady at 2-under through nine.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 June 2025
Adjective
  • The filmmaking matches the placid discontent of the characters.
    Guy Lodge, Variety, 13 June 2025
  • Its setting once bore the rich grandeur of the Northwest, framed by mountains, royal robes of evergreens trailing into the placid harbor of Commencement Bay.
    Caroline Fraser June 10, Literary Hub, 10 June 2025
Adjective
  • The brand’s Breeze duvet cover features an extra-soft, 300 single-ply thread count sateen weave fabric made from Tencel eucalyptus lyocell fibers, which helps absorb moisture and promote a restful sleep.
    Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 21 June 2025
  • For Better Sleep Best time to drink: Evening Consider trying bone broth in the evening for more restful sleep.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Steve Lee, Caravan Studios’ director of product development, said the collected data is stored in a secure cloud.
    Blake Nelson, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 June 2025
  • The collected material makes a persuasive case for self-forgiveness.
    Dayna Tortorici, New Yorker, 9 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on serene

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