tranquil

adjective

tran·​quil ˈtraŋ-kwəl 

ˈtran-

1

a

: free from agitation of mind or spirit

a tranquil self-assurance

b

: free from disturbance or turmoil

a tranquil scene

2

: unvarying in aspect : steady, stable

tranquilly

ˈtraŋ-kwə-lē 

ˈtran-

adverb

tranquilness noun

Synonyms

• arcadian
• calm
• hushed
• peaceful
• placid
• quiet
• restful
• serene
• still
• stilly

Choose the Right Synonym for tranquil

calm, tranquil, serene, placid, peaceful mean quiet and free from disturbance.

calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

Examples of tranquil in a Sentence

the house was once again tranquil after the kids moved outside to play

though she should have been upset, she felt oddly tranquil upon learning that she would not be receiving the scholarship

Recent Examples on the Web

What started off as a tranquil moment of solitude turned into a disaster, as the Labrador showed no understanding of personal space. —Tom Rogers, Newsweek, 21 Feb. 2025

Then, there’s the town of Maratea, which is set on a tranquil Tyrrhenian coastline and offers historic accommodations by way of Hotel Santavenere (Sophia Loren and Anita Ekberg both stayed here). —Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 17 Feb. 2025

Altogether, the property encompasses 12,900 square feet of interior space, offering ample space to enjoy a tranquil, coastal lifestyle. —Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 11 Feb. 2025

And for ultimate relaxation, the spa offers a tranquil oasis amid the city’s vibrant energy. —Forbes Travel Guide, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English tranquill, from Latin tranquillus

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

tranquil

adjective

tran·​quil ˈtraŋ-kwəl 

ˈtran-

: free from disturbance or turmoil : quiet

tranquilly

-kwə-lē 

adverb