1
2
3

Synonym Chooser

How is the word tranquil different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of tranquil are calm, peaceful, placid, and serene. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

When is it sensible to use calm instead of tranquil?

In some situations, the words calm and tranquil are roughly equivalent. 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 could peaceful be used to replace tranquil?

The synonyms peaceful and tranquil are sometimes interchangeable, but peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When can placid be used instead of tranquil?

The meanings of placid and tranquil largely overlap; however, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is serene a more appropriate choice than tranquil?

The words serene and tranquil are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

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 tranquil Complementing this tranquil practice is Palace Wellness, featuring full massage and beauty services, private spa suites, a fitness center and the La Diala restaurant. Roger Sands, Forbes.com, 10 June 2025 Other highlights include Stringer’s Ridge, a reclaimed urban woodland with tranquil views of the skyline, and the Tennessee Riverwalk, a scenic path that threads through downtown and other neighborhoods. Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 28 Apr. 2025 Located on the ninth floor of the luxurious five-star Times Square Edition, The Terrace and Outdoor Gardens transports diners to a tranquil paradise. Emma Kershaw, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025 Bring a group for a tranquil picnic by the lake at the pavilion. Dalia Faheid, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 9 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for tranquil
Recent Examples of Synonyms for tranquil
Adjective
  • Without it, people go quiet, engagement drops and growth stalls.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
  • Young visitors will enjoy the splash pad and water slide, while guests ages 18 and older are welcome to relax in the quiet adults-only pool and hot tub.
    Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Big Momma the alligator is one of his muses, as are curious bobcats and the serene landscape.
    Amanda Rosa, Miami Herald, 28 June 2025
  • The entire island is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a kaleidoscope of lush valleys, dramatic waterfalls and serene lagoons.
    Ann Abel, Forbes.com, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • Iran has long maintained that its nuclear program is peaceful, and U.S. intelligence agencies have assessed that Tehran is not actively pursuing a bomb.
    Jon Gambrell, Fortune, 26 June 2025
  • My students said these are small, unexpected spots that provide an excellent opportunity for a quiet, peaceful break, to be present, whether enjoyed alone or with a friend.
    Eric Zillmer, The Conversation, 25 June 2025
Adjective
  • Highlights ranged from a placid morning setting out on Lake Ontario to a crowded afternoon carefully crossing shipping lanes in New York Harbor.
    Taylor Haney, NPR, 18 June 2025
  • Shortly after, the placid family evening was interrupted when, prosecutors alleged, Jenkins’ brother, Jalonie, stabbed her so brutally that her trachea was split in half.
    Madeline Buckley, Chicago Tribune, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • There’s something wonderfully timeless about pushing off from shore in a canoe as the paddles dip quietly through calm water as dragonflies skim by.
    Cameron Beall, Southern Living, 29 June 2025
  • What if your government made the calm, rational decision that your country must cease to exist, then set about shutting it down in stages, as the currency became worthless and the population scrambled to emigrate?
    Judy Berman, Time, 27 June 2025
Adjective
  • The brand’s Breeze duvet cover features an extra-soft, 300 single-ply thread count sateen weave fabric made from Tencel eucalyptus lyocell fibers, which helps absorb moisture and promote a restful sleep.
    Jacorey Moon, Architectural Digest, 21 June 2025
  • For Better Sleep Best time to drink: Evening Consider trying bone broth in the evening for more restful sleep.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 28 May 2025
Adjective
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
  • McIlroy looked composed and steady at 2-under through nine.
    Brody Miller, New York Times, 13 June 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Tranquil.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/tranquil. Accessed 3 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on tranquil

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!