Definition of serenenext
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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 Laminated glass on higher-spec models significantly reduces wind and road noise, giving the E-408 a notably serene motorway character. Matthew MacConnell, Forbes.com, 1 June 2026 West Elm’s Brockton bamboo organizer stacking boxes are ideal for serene storage on the counter or under the bathroom sink. Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 1 June 2026 Hotel Portsmouth’s rooms are bright and quirky, while the rooms at The Bow have a more serene and subdued ambience. Jacqueline Dole, Travel + Leisure, 31 May 2026 This barely blue tone is perfect for creating soft, serene environments. Shagun Khare, Martha Stewart, 30 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • This is quiet luxury in hotel form.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • And yet art-world institutions—including major museums, schools, commercial galleries, and publishing outlets—have mostly avoided the fawning capitulation of universities and Democrats, simply going quiet in the hope of escaping notice for the next three years.
    Katy Siegel, Artforum, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • If caught in a rip current, remain calm.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 7 June 2026
  • Choose clear words to build calm, trust, and workable agreements.
    Tarot.com, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 June 2026
Adjective
  • Lucy is very isolated in this superficially tranquil domestic setting, separated from friends, far from her mother, dependent on Philip, and not even entirely fluent in German.
    Leslie Felperin, HollywoodReporter, 15 May 2026
  • The Orangery, one of nearly a dozen gardens, provides an exotic and tranquil refuge to recovery from the adrenaline.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 27 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • While recognizing peaceful protest as a constitutional right, the judges said actions that disrupt public life, block roads, intimidate others or interfere with constitutional processes do not enjoy legal protection.
    ABC News, ABC News, 7 June 2026
  • Sanders grew up in South Kansas City and is excited to give streetcar riders something peaceful to look at and engage with while at the stop.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 7 June 2026
Adjective
  • Americans have known Fox News’s Kayleigh McEnany as the composed woman behind the podium, forcefully defending administration policy in the White House briefing room, sparring with reporters on live television, or navigating the relentless pressures of national politics.
    Kiara Moore, The Washington Examiner, 17 May 2026
  • McIlroy overcame some early inconsistency to put together a composed round, while Burns leaned on excellent ball-striking to match him at the top.
    Marley Malenfant, Austin American Statesman, 10 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • The area The main point of being here is to be absorbed in the mirage-like, placid beauty of the lake.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • Hood was 16 when the theme park dropped into his backyard, kickstarting the transformation of the placid farming community with a population of 3,300 at the time.
    Joseph States, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2026
Adjective
  • The decor is minimal but chic—you’ll spot some Philippe Starck—that’s designed for restful time indoors, but also to remind you of nature’s bonanza at your doorstep.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026
  • Busy schedules, being online constantly and work pressure have made a lot of travelers want a slower, more restful time away from home.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 2 June 2026
Adjective
  • The suit, filed Friday on behalf of lead plaintiff Summer Christine Duffield, alleges that the company does not adequately disclose its use of the technology and is not transparent about how the collected data will be used.
    Minyvonne Burke, NBC news, 20 May 2026
  • They are obligated to buy the underlying stock at that put's strike price in exchange for the collected premium.
    Oliver Renick, CNBC, 19 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 8 Jun. 2026.

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