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 Nearly a hundred shiny black calves are frolicking in the pastures, including twin bulls (birthweight of 72 pounds each) whose mother is completely unruffled by this unusual occurrence and its maternal responsibilities. Susan Koch, Chicago Tribune, 2 May 2025 Well, Piastri faced everything Norris encountered in his fights with Verstappen in 2024 and came out on top and unruffled. Alex Kalinauckas, New York Times, 24 Apr. 2025 In a situation that would rattle almost anyone on their first day at a new job, Dr. Mel remains as unruffled as her ponytail braid and still doesn’t have a hair out of place at hour 12 of the shift. Jen Chaney, Vulture, 29 Mar. 2025 The Portfolio designer moves through the chaos like the eye of a hurricane, seemingly unruffled by his surroundings. Tonya Blazio-Licorish, Footwear News, 3 Sep. 2019 See All Example Sentences for unruffled
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unruffled
Adjective
  • Shannon asks in a remarkably calm voice.
    Peter Larsen, Oc Register, 27 Sep. 2025
  • There are not many people to like, care about, or believe on this season, but there is one who is calm, level-headed, and was there for it all.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The 47-suite interior has a serene, minimalist ambiance inspired by traditional ryokan architecture, with clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and large balconies in each stateroom.
    Chrissie McClatchie, Robb Report, 27 Sep. 2025
  • In videos shared to the meteor society and to local TV outlets, the satellite’s breakup appeared dramatic but serene, moving slowly across the sky and trailing glowing fragments for several seconds.
    Daniel Hunt, Sacbee.com, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • But not everyone agreed that this mom would be better off picking her battles before rushing into an argument that could cost her a peaceful relationship with her in-laws.
    Elisabeth Sherman, Parents, 23 Sep. 2025
  • Every worker deserves a peaceful commute to work.
    Anna Kaufman, USA Today, 23 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • The second thing that makes an impression is how composed Sartori is—remarkably Zen even—mere hours before a major show.
    Naomi Rougeau, Robb Report, 13 Sep. 2025
  • The vocabulary being used by Qatar’s prime minister is strong, evocative and damning, a departure from his usual composed response to the incessant twists and turns of trying to end the 23-month war in Gaza.
    Paula Hancocks, CNN Money, 10 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Overall, the collected plant evidence shows that the area was humid and forested when the dinosaurs roamed.
    Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 19 Sep. 2025
  • If the justices rule that IEEPA does not permit these tariffs, the government could be potentially required to refund some collected duties and presidents going forward could face clearer statutory limits on unilateral trade actions.
    Anna Commander Gabe Whisnant, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Manta Resort boasts private beach access and a restaurant overlooking the water's edge, while the Limni resort, with just 11 rooms and a tranquil central pool, offers a more personalized experience.
    Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2025
  • The serenity of this secluded Côte d’Azur retreat provides a tranquil foil for The White Lotus’ explosive drama.
    Spencer Whaley, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • May 13, 2021 issue Prudence Crowther and James Taibi Olympic Notes August 8, 1996 issue Christopher Benfey Resistance Pottery Two recent exhibitions of the work of Black potters find political acts in the placid history of nineteenth-century American stoneware.
    Leslie T. Chang, The New York Review of Books, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Though many visitors to Scotland seek out hiking and walking trails far from the buzzing big cities, in fact, Glasgow and Edinburgh are replete with placid and picturesque green spaces.
    Jeanine Barone, Forbes.com, 8 Sep. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Unruffled.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unruffled. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

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