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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of placid are calm, peaceful, serene, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is it sensible to use calm instead of placid?

The synonyms calm and placid are sometimes interchangeable, but calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

In what contexts can peaceful take the place of placid?

The meanings of peaceful and placid largely overlap; however, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When is serene a more appropriate choice than placid?

While the synonyms serene and placid are close in meaning, serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When can tranquil be used instead of placid?

While in some cases nearly identical to placid, tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure.

the tranquil beauty of a formal garden

Examples 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 placid Rose witnesses a new patient — frantic and terrified one minute, placid and dead-eyed the next — take her own life right in front of her, a haunting smile never leaving the disturbed young woman’s face. Janey Tracey, EW.com, 16 Oct. 2024 Tens of thousands of Americans moved to the area during the COVID-19 pandemic, with many choosing to settle along barrier islands like Clearwater and St. Petersburg overlooking the normally placid, emerald Gulf waters. Terry Spencer, The Christian Science Monitor, 8 Oct. 2024 All the rooms here, including the two-bedroom family suites, are nestled amid placid lily ponds and towering palms. Jack Tydeman, Travel + Leisure, 7 Oct. 2024 In other words, in the current environment — a placid one by crypto’s volatile standards — the true believers are the ones who are holding on. Ryan Ermey, CNBC, 7 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for placid 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for placid
Adjective
  • Housing up to 14 people, a group of friends or family reunion can enjoy a comfortable space in a serene setting.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 2 Nov. 2024
  • The figure’s serene posture against the backdrop of the ocean resonated deeply with them, leading to quiet contemplation.
    Laura Parker, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • The Adults-Only concept is catered to couples, offering a tranquil environment with private areas designed for relaxation, perfect after the wedding festivities have finished.
    Lopesan Costa Bavaro Contributor, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Dinner was a feast of arctic char and skagen at the inn’s 130-year-old restaurant, which is open until Christmas and was distinctly tranquil after the summer rush.
    Madeline Weinfield, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Mikko Rantanen spoke bluntly about Nichushkin, saying the quiet part out loud.
    Troy Renck, The Denver Post, 15 Nov. 2024
  • Find a quiet spot away from city lights, lay back, and enjoy the cosmos while sharing stories with friends.
    Tribune Content Agency, The Mercury News, 14 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Great need can also reduce an ordinarily calm and reflective hunter to a gibbering imbecile.
    Jack O’Connor, Outdoor Life, 6 Nov. 2024
  • On the other end, a scammer impersonates a bank representative with a calm and authoritative tone.
    Lars Daniel, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Trump returns to White House for symbolic meeting President-elect Donald Trump will meet with President Joe Biden today in a symbolic White House ceremony meant to signal the peaceful transfer of power.
    Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
  • The system proved incapable of punishing Trump personally for his concerted, multifaceted refusal to accept his defeat and accept a peaceful transfer of power in 2020.
    Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs, 7 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • This leader knows when to lean in, signaling approachability, and when to maintain a composed silence, showcasing quiet confidence.
    Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
  • Stay composed and resilient with empathy, which should help ease tension in the room.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024

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Cite this Entry

“Placid.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/placid. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on placid

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