Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective restful differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of restful are comfortable, cozy, easy, and snug. While all these words mean "enjoying or providing a position of contentment and security," restful applies to whatever induces or contributes to rest or relaxation.

a quiet restful vacation

When could comfortable be used to replace restful?

The synonyms comfortable and restful are sometimes interchangeable, but comfortable applies to anything that encourages serenity, well-being, or complacency as well as physical ease.

started feeling comfortable in our new surroundings

When is it sensible to use cozy instead of restful?

The words cozy and restful can be used in similar contexts, but cozy suggests warmth, shelter, assured ease, and friendliness.

a cozy neighborhood coffee shop

In what contexts can easy take the place of restful?

Although the words easy and restful have much in common, easy implies relief from or absence of anything likely to cause discomfort or constraint.

living in easy circumstances

Where would snug be a reasonable alternative to restful?

The meanings of snug and restful largely overlap; however, snug suggests having just enough space for comfort and safety but no more.

a snug little cottage

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 restful Brooklinen’s bedroom essentials—from cozy down comforters to luxurious memory foam pillows—will soon have you on your way to more restful nights. Rebecca Shinners, Architectural Digest, 10 Jan. 2025 As many parents of young children know, bedtime does not necessarily bring with it a restful night of sleep. Jack Beresford, Newsweek, 6 Jan. 2025 Look for options with a high thread count, breathable cotton fabric, and a cozy yet cool feel to help provide you with a restful night of sleep. Kelsey Fredricks, Better Homes & Gardens, 5 Jan. 2025 Seeking professional advice and exploring tailored solutions can lead to more restful nights and a better overall sense of well-being. Mill Etienne, Forbes, 24 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for restful 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for restful
Adjective
  • All the preceding intrigue is really a setup for climactic dialogues between father and daughter that are quiet, unpleasant, but fully loaded with stinging emotional payoff.
    Dennis Harvey, Variety, 22 Jan. 2025
  • Feedback gets brushed aside, dissenting voices go quiet and innovation dies.
    Mark Kane, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • With a focus on soft, natural tones, sustainable materials and biophilic elements like plants and greenery, this trend transforms hospitality spaces into peaceful sanctuaries.
    Roger Sands, Forbes, 21 Jan. 2025
  • But even that initial wave appeared to mount a peaceful takeover, with folks posing for pictures, making snow angels and gleefully soaking in the moment.
    Justin Williams, The Athletic, 21 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Located on the state’s southeastern coast, just 30 minutes north of glitzy West Palm Beach, Jupiter enjoys a slower, more serene pace that’s perfect for lazy days of relaxing with a view of the water.
    Tara Massouleh McCay, Southern Living, 24 Jan. 2025
  • The effect is often serene and soothing, even when busy, stuttering electronic beats occasionally enter the mix.
    Al Shipley, SPIN, 22 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Look to shades of green like sage, moss, and juniper for a tranquil connection with nature.
    Cyndy Aldred, Better Homes & Gardens, 6 Jan. 2025
  • But instead of a tranquil stroll in the Pennines of West Yorkshire, Ivy had other ideas and began singing Hey Jude by The Beatles—although her version sounded a little different to the warm and soothing vocals of Paul McCartney.
    Dan Perry, Newsweek, 3 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Perhaps Berlinski means this outbreak of placid coexistence to be hopeful, even a metaphor for a less fractured United States: its angry old men and outraged women enjoying a moment of détente.
    Laura Collins-Hughes, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Which were placid and rubbery, and which were meaty and juicy?
    Laurie Ochoa, Los Angeles Times, 21 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near restful

Cite this Entry

“Restful.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/restful. Accessed 4 Feb. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on restful

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!