Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of unruffled are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and nonchalant. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

When could collected be used to replace unruffled?

While in some cases nearly identical to unruffled, collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When can composed be used instead of unruffled?

While the synonyms composed and unruffled are close in meaning, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When would cool be a good substitute for unruffled?

The meanings of cool and unruffled largely overlap; however, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

When is imperturbable a more appropriate choice than unruffled?

Although the words imperturbable and unruffled have much in common, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can nonchalant take the place of unruffled?

The synonyms nonchalant and unruffled are sometimes interchangeable, but nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

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 unruffled Liverpool’s second half comeback against Southampton left the team jubilant but not unruffled given the first-half problems. James Nalton, Forbes, 8 Mar. 2025 Meghan’s particular sensibility, a clean and unruffled traditional-meets-modern mélange, runs up against the limits of having to fill eight long episodes with only a certain number of new ideas. Daniel D'addario, Variety, 4 Mar. 2025 To feel the need to run out of the train, screaming, yet remain completely still, unruffled. Anelise Chen, The Atlantic, 25 Feb. 2025 His non-answer answer was delivered in Alonso’s typically unruffled manner. Dermot Corrigan, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for unruffled
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unruffled
Adjective
  • Did your presence create more clarity, more calm, more progress?
    Cicely Simpson, Forbes.com, 11 July 2025
  • Think smooth shores sloping gently into calm waves and views framed by palm trees.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 11 July 2025
Adjective
  • Finally, the third gallery room attempts to project a cooler, more verdant future with walls colored a serene green hue.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 12 July 2025
  • In between, are patio tables with umbrellas and other shady spots to sit for a while and take in the serene surroundings.
    Lisa Cericola, Southern Living, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Carlos Montes, a longtime leader with Centro CSO, said the organization’s events, including protests, have always been peaceful and organized.
    Victoria Elena Valenzuela, USA Today, 8 July 2025
  • The 40,000-square-foot Spa Montage, meanwhile, is a destination in itself and includes a peaceful infinity pool surrounded by tropical greenery.
    John Wogan, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
Adjective
  • Despite suffering from a severe injury at 13,800 feet, the climber remained responsive and composed.
    Sarah Rumpf-Whitten, FOXNews.com, 9 July 2025
  • Then take the time to analyze the situation before delivering a thoughtful and composed response.
    Christopher Fairbank, Forbes.com, 18 June 2025
Adjective
  • The collected data underscored that what’s played in public places doesn’t necessarily mirror what’s on the popular playlists or radio and streaming platforms.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 10 July 2025
  • Some aldermen, both at the committee meeting last month and at the City Council meeting on Tuesday, had concerns over how the collected data was being handled by the police department.
    R. Christian Smith, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2025
Adjective
  • You and your date are nestled on Mozart's expansive deck, with a signature coffee in hand, watching this spectacular show unfold over the tranquil waters of Lake Austin.
    Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025
  • The tranquil spa on the property’s lower level feels like a hidden oasis, with a sleek and contemporary pool that is, in fact, the only indoor swimming pool in inner Copenhagen.
    Elizabeth Brownfield, Forbes.com, 28 June 2025
Adjective
  • His face is as placid as a god’s, affixing a category to each letter.
    Rick Barot, New Yorker, 9 June 2025
  • While some are more placid and don't mind being treated, there are others who can get very stressed by their unknown environment, including Percy the cat.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unruffled.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unruffled. Accessed 17 Jul. 2025.

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