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 This use of collaging politicized pin-back buttons into a seemingly serene yellow flower works to convey a message about the complexities of women who are intellectually, civically and emotionally sophisticated beyond face-value aesthetics. Elizabeth Grace Coyne, Forbes.com, 31 July 2026 Dongliang’s destination shop was designed by its cofounders Charles Wang and Daniel Du, blending Art Nouveau influences with East Asian minimalism, which also echoes Perfumer H’s serene sensibility. Denni Hu, Footwear News, 30 July 2026 Once one of the largest museums in Texas, it is known for its serene spaces and exhibits by regional, national, and international artists. Gabi De La Rosa, Southern Living, 28 July 2026 The hotel’s adults-only status and location tucked into Wailea’s hillside work in tandem to create a serene, relaxing atmosphere. Ronee Uyeshiro, Travel + Leisure, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • Venus enters Libra and your 12th House of Solitude, bringing healing, privacy, and quiet restoration.
    Tarot.com, New York Daily News, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Path two runs through Congress, where Senators Schiff and Curtis have a bill declaring the quiet part, the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act, and the AGA is lobbying for exactly that.
    Zennon Kapron, Forbes.com, 5 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Strikes in the region have been relatively calmer over the past few days, although Kuwait said Iran hit a building belonging to a Chinese company in the northern part of the country on Thursday, killing one employee.
    Sophie Tanno, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The patented, portable Ready Rocker is ergonomically designed to help alleviate discomfort, relieve back pain, reduce stress, calm anxiety and improve sleep, fitting both deep and shallow seating with two rocking positions.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 Aug. 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
  • After decades of relatively peaceful seas, cargo vessels have become high-priority targets, getting damaged, sunk or seized with abandon.
    Craig Hooper, Forbes.com, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Even a short, narrow stream can create a peaceful effect as the water trickles and gurgles along.
    Savanna Bous, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Barbie’s hair choices, too, are ever so composed and elegant.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 29 July 2026
  • 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
Adjective
  • Maheu and Perreault-Magny tied up briefly in the middle of the placid river with officers from the Akwesasne nation, a Tim Hortons coffee cup riding shotgun on their console.
    Trevor Hughes, USA Today, 29 July 2026
  • An upper Midwest lake house often conjures images of a cozy cabin with knotty pine paneling, a fieldstone fireplace, and a dock stretching into the placid water.
    Tori Latham, Robb Report, 13 July 2026
Adjective
  • To kickstart sweet, barrier-supporting dreams, try incorporating a magnesium supplement into your nightly routine, or use a topical form of the mineral, which is thought to promote more restful sleep.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 July 2026
  • With modern interiors and restful room features like teak furnishings, rain showerheads, and luxe robes, the hotel is designed to feel like a getaway.
    Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 23 July 2026
Adjective
  • Paired with the Emme play table, this duo creates the kind of collected look that feels professionally layered.
    Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 31 July 2026
  • For several years, large majorities of Americans have reported being concerned about how companies use their data, while also having minimal understanding of how collected data is actually used.
    David Henkin, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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