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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 Though their time in space was short, all six stepped away from the experience feeling a serene sense of awe and humble amazement. Josh Dinner, Space.com, 14 Apr. 2025 The car-free island is the epitome of relaxation, and the serene beaches are the true highlight. Lydia Mansel, Southern Living, 12 Apr. 2025 Fixtures that remind us of hotel stays—like blackout curtains, upholstered bed frames, and luxury bedding—can be shortcuts to achieving more serene sleep. Kelly Dawson, Architectural Digest, 11 Apr. 2025 The primary suite, situated on the main floor, features a serene bathroom with bamboo detailing on the ceiling and a private terrace overlooking the lake. Tori Latham, Robb Report, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • The present-day Affleck and titular accountant from The Accountant 2 seems to briefly reach out and touch the Sad Affleck of days of yore in this final memory, his eyes almost misty and voice quiet.
    Fran Hoepfner, Vulture, 28 Apr. 2025
  • And while Bicester Heritage acts as a quiet and calm but highly productive group of car-adjacent businesses during the week, the Scramble sees thousands of gearheads descend.
    Alistair Charlton, Forbes.com, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The evening is expected to be calm and mild with a low of 57.
    Todd Karpovich, Baltimore Sun, 30 Apr. 2025
  • To those leading their march and speaking for the tens of thousands standing behind you: be calm, be clear.
    Danielle Wallace, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Soft, soothing shades like dusty blues, sage greens and warm neutrals can help create a tranquil mood.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Photo: Lourenco Teixeira de Abreu For a more tranquil coastal retreat, Mélides offers a quieter escape with wilder, more secluded beaches—perhaps what first drew Christian Louboutin and Vincent Van Duysen, both of whom have homes in the area.
    Monica Mendal, Vogue, 18 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The meeting lasted about 15 minutes inside St. Peter's Basilica at the Vatican, where Francis often preached the need for a peaceful end to the war, just before Trump and Zelenskyy took their seats at the outdoor funeral service.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 27 Apr. 2025
  • Together, these two pros deliver a Sunday to-do list that will hopefully create a more peaceful and efficient week ahead.
    Patricia Shannon, Southern Living, 27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Eliot compares this style to Rory McIlroy lining up a putt to win the Masters: focused, composed, blocking out distractions.
    Julian Hayes II, Forbes.com, 19 Apr. 2025
  • The sets had their ups and downs: some of the improvisations were gorgeous, but the more composed elements felt messy.
    Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 14 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • For decades, that task would have taken place in the placid setting of a bullpen session.
    Andy McCullough, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2025
  • There are meadows full of elk and rivers stacked with trout, steep slopes, and placid lakes.
    Graham Averill, Outside Online, 25 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • And the white noise provided by the 90º oscillating fans is, in Harrison’s opinion, just the low-frequency sound needed for restful sleep.
    Julia Harrison, Architectural Digest, 25 Apr. 2025
  • Pain, worry, or getting up to use the bathroom at night can all decrease restful sleep, causing someone to feel even more tired during the day. MCRPC Without Symptoms Not everyone with mCRPC will have symptoms right away.
    Julie Scott, MSN, ANP-BC, AOCNP, Verywell Health, 17 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The collected data helps scientists unravel the complex interplay between the hot plasma and magnetic fields that drive solar eruptions, according to the statement.
    Sharmila Kuthunur, Space.com, 24 Apr. 2025
  • The collected data included names, addresses, dates of birth and driver’s license numbers.
    Ryley Amond, CNBC, 18 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 4 May. 2025.

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