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 Towering trees filled with the flowers create dreamy walkways and serene leisure areas. Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 28 Jan. 2026 Private destination Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve feels more serene and natural than what other cruise lines offer in their theme park-esque private islands. Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 Jan. 2026 From the bold and sparkling Carolins of the eighties to the sophisticated and serene woman of the present who, adapting to the new decades, has continued to maintain her style. Marta Martínez Tato, Vanity Fair, 24 Jan. 2026 The neighborhood/area Nestled in the tranquil Blackfoot Valley, Paws Up is situated in Greenough, Montana, a serene, rural community known for its expansive landscapes and authentic ranching heritage. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • Below are five actions that may seem quiet but can significantly increase your chances of promotion in the first quarter, along with how to put them into practice.
    Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 27 Jan. 2026
  • The cold, quiet pattern continues Tuesday in Minnesota.
    Joseph Dames, CBS News, 27 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Crandon Park Beach Key Biscayne, Florida A two-mile stretch of soft white sand in Key Biscayne, family-friendly Crandon Park Beach consistently earns praise for its beauty and calm waters thanks to an offshore sandbar.
    Beth Luberecki, USA Today, 31 Jan. 2026
  • Simple, Purposeful Spaces Warm minimalism creates calm, simple spaces by keeping a room clean and clutter-free.
    Erica Puisis, The Spruce, 31 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • In the same way, the entire gallery space invites us into the thoughtful and tranquil world of Alfredo Castañeda.
    Michael James Rocha, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Jan. 2026
  • The entrance cleverly separates hotel guests from those who are there to dine, so the check-in area is always uncrowded and tranquil.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Amid persisting violence from criminal groups in a country long considered a peaceful tourist hub, polling reveals that Costa Ricans are most concerned about security this year.
    Djenane Villanueva, CNN Money, 1 Feb. 2026
  • After a peaceful march to the Georgia State Capitol that swelled into the hundreds, protestors returned to the area around the Centennial Olympic Park and CNN Center, where some confronted police, who sprayed some demonstrators with pepper spray.
    Ernie Suggs, AJC.com, 1 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • When the center returned to Minnesota, Finch saw a player who was more composed and sure of how to use his boundless energy within the context of the game.
    Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 15 Jan. 2026
  • The usually very composed DiCaprio is going viral for getting playful during one of the show's commercial breaks, as he was captured laughing, smiling, and doing a very hammy impression of a person who was off camera.
    Shania Russell, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • Director Juliette Carrillo displays a strong feel for dynamic contrast, the pace ebbing and flowing in engaging fashion, as when a placid interlude of shadow puppetry gives way to a road rally.
    Rob Hubbard, Twin Cities, 1 Feb. 2026
  • The sun set out of view, behind the island, but the placid Caribbean horizon beyond my window offered a contemplative charm all its own.
    John Bowe, Travel + Leisure, 1 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Holidaying with kids is fun but no one would call it restful.
    Irenie Forshaw, TheWeek, 27 Jan. 2026
  • Warm Neutrals Benjamin Moore’s Swiss Coffee is a restful hue that designers all over the South adore.
    Lauren Jones, Southern Living, 26 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • The collected data is sent to an app via Bluetooth, where it can be used to provide information on hormonal cycles and anxiety levels.
    Tom Gavin, EverydayHealth.com, 9 Jan. 2026
  • After more than six months of study, Tianwen-2 will leave the asteroid and drop the collected sample down to Earth before heading off to investigate 311P/PanSTARRS, a complicated celestial object that’s part asteroid and part comet.
    IEEE Spectrum, IEEE Spectrum, 31 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 3 Feb. 2026.

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