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 Benjamin Moore's Horizon is a sophisticated off-white hue that sets a serene and refreshing tone thanks to its delicate blue and gray undertones. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 4 Nov. 2025 Even Kananaskis Village—the region’s hub with a hotel, restaurants, a spa, a general store, and an outfitting company—is in a serene valley surrounded by trails. Lisa Kadane, Travel + Leisure, 2 Nov. 2025 The model’s glam featured a serene makeup look with her hair pulled back into a tight chignon in a slicked style, a nod to one of the season’s leading hair trends. Julia Teti, Footwear News, 30 Oct. 2025 As the woman walks to the back of her yard, the camera pans to reveal a serene river flowing directly behind her home, offering an idyllic and peaceful view that has quickly won over viewers. Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • The lightweight fabric is also quiet, so you won’t be awoken from crinkling material.
    Rylee Johnston, PEOPLE, 9 Jan. 2026
  • The family settled in a quiet residential street of older homes and multifamily buildings, some front porches festooned with pride flags still twinkling with holiday lights.
    Michael Biesecker, Twin Cities, 8 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • With over 20 years of experience, Melissa has helped families transform chaos into calm using compassion, clarity, and proven behavioral strategies.
    Maria Williams, USA Today, 7 Nov. 2025
  • Peak season is over, meaning the crowds are gone, the water feels calmer, the restaurants are more enjoyable, and the sunsets last just a little bit longer.
    Gabi De la Rosa, Southern Living, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • From a kitchen inspired by Scandinavian and Japanese design to a colorful yet tranquil Victorian bathroom, Drift Interiors + Architecture can bring any style to life.
    Elizabeth Stamp, Architectural Digest, 3 Nov. 2025
  • Long, flowing lines and a neutral palette create calm, tranquil vibes throughout, while expansive windows invite light in and offer views out.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The mayor called on the community to remain peaceful in the aftermath.
    WCCO Staff, CBS News, 8 Jan. 2026
  • But once inside, as the crackling fire quickly warms you up, there’s no better feeling after hours on the trail than dropping your backpack on the floor, taking off your boots and settling in for a few days of peaceful escape.
    The Denver Post, Denver Post, 7 Jan. 2026
Adjective
  • More aggressive than the Tide, more physical, more composed and clearly better prepared, the Hoosiers showed zero rust after a month-long break after the Big Ten championship game.
    Paul Myerberg, USA Today, 2 Jan. 2026
  • But Peggy never forgot her roots; a genre-blending selector with range, she’s known for her energetic but composed sets.
    Kelly Washington, Refinery29, 22 Dec. 2025
Adjective
  • Without unbending her back, the mother arranges her mouth into a placid line.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 15 Dec. 2025
  • As Butker’s kick went through, Steichen looked placid.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Consider staying here for a honeymoon, a romantic winter getaway, or a restful solo trip down south.
    Lori Keong, Architectural Digest, 6 Nov. 2025
  • Start with the basics by introducing healthy practices like getting enough exercise, eating a balanced diet and getting enough restful sleep.
    Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 29 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • 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
  • However, these days, a more collected look is preferred.
    Sarah Lyon, The Spruce, 30 Dec. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 11 Jan. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on serene

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