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 Hagan Community Park in Rancho Cordova transformed from a serene hangout spot into an enormous fun-fest fit for a nation’s 250th birthday on Friday. Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 4 July 2026 Her doctors searched for ways to manage her stress by exposing her to various activities, including video games, serene Icelandic landscapes and an aerial silks performance. Steven Vargas, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026 The particles are settled, and the scene is clear, and may, in fact, be serene; picture-perfect. Sharon Daniels, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026 These stunning ornamental shrubs showcase flower heads in a dazzling array of colors, including vibrant purples, charming pinks, and serene blues that bloom across various climates. Sj McShane, Martha Stewart, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • And waterfront towns like North Bay Village and Bay Harbor Islands that were once known as quiet working-class suburbs are getting facelifts with new ultra-luxury condo buildings.
    Catherine Odom, Miami Herald, 15 July 2026
  • Instead, the young man who lived with his partner and daughter was described by neighbors as quiet and reserved.
    Maria Santana, CNN Money, 15 July 2026
Adjective
  • Sant Pol de Mar swaps crowded stretches of sand for quieter coves, whitewashed buildings and a noticeably calmer atmosphere than Barcelona.
    Rebecca Ann Hughes, Forbes.com, 11 July 2026
  • If a friend vents loudly, listen first and encourage calmer options before weighing in.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 11 July 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
  • Gardens and Green Spaces Fairhope’s slower pace is best appreciated in its peaceful gardens and parks.
    Lauren Dana Ellman, Travel + Leisure, 17 July 2026
  • Often nestled in lush mountains or on a peaceful lake, the bucolic and nature-filled settings of sleep-away camps will always remain ingrained in our memories.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 16 July 2026
Adjective
  • Replacement Ryunosuke Ito, plucked from Meiji University, had a composed debut, including laying on a try for Matsunaga, who was five for five off the tee.
    ABC News, ABC News, 4 July 2026
  • After opening the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a dominant 4-1 win over Paraguay in Los Angeles, the United States followed it with a composed 2-0 victory over Australia in Seattle.
    Jon Root OutKick, FOXNews.com, 20 June 2026
Adjective
  • The pitch had looked particularly placid on the third day but Roach, Seales and the two Josephs caused the ball to seam and swing Sunday.
    ABC News, ABC News, 28 June 2026
  • The main institutional index of US row-crop land finished up a fraction over the prior year, the kind of placid result that has made farmland a favorite of pension funds looking for calm.
    Dara-Abasi Ita, Forbes.com, 26 June 2026
Adjective
  • In a separate study, chronic daily users spent significantly more time awake during the night and got less restful sleep compared with nonusers; another study found that using cannabis close to bedtime had similar effects.
    Joanna Fong-Isariyawongse, The Conversation, 11 June 2026
  • Thankfully, my first night in Appalachia consisted only of a restful sleep.
    Hillary Richard, Travel + Leisure, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • The collected luggage includes roller bags, duffel bags, suitcases and backpacks.
    Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026
  • That changed in 2018, when the Council passed Helen Rosenthal’s bill encouraging New Yorkers to report idling violations by requiring the city to publicize the process and pay them 25% of any collected fines for their efforts.
    Chris Hartmann, New York Daily News, 16 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 19 Jul. 2026.

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