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sedate

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verb

Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of sedate are earnest, grave, serious, sober, solemn, and staid. While all these words mean "not light or frivolous," sedate implies a composed and decorous seriousness.

remained sedate amid the commotion

When might earnest be a better fit than sedate?

While in some cases nearly identical to sedate, earnest suggests sincerity or often zealousness of purpose.

an earnest reformer

In what contexts can grave take the place of sedate?

The words grave and sedate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, grave implies both seriousness and dignity in expression or attitude.

read the proclamation in a grave voice

Where would serious be a reasonable alternative to sedate?

The synonyms serious and sedate are sometimes interchangeable, but serious implies a concern for what really matters.

a serious play about social injustice

When could sober be used to replace sedate?

In some situations, the words sober and sedate are roughly equivalent. However, sober stresses seriousness of purpose and absence of levity or frivolity.

a sober look at the state of our schools

When would solemn be a good substitute for sedate?

The meanings of solemn and sedate largely overlap; however, solemn suggests an impressive gravity utterly free from levity.

a sad and solemn occasion

When is staid a more appropriate choice than sedate?

While the synonyms staid and sedate are close in meaning, staid suggests a settled, accustomed sedateness and prim self-restraint.

a quiet and staid community

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 sedate
Adjective
Overall, the cabin is somewhat sedate but no less comfortable and has an abundance of storage options. PCMAG, 6 Feb. 2025 The moment was dramatic, but Mr. Trump’s delivery was unusually sedate. James Poniewozik, New York Times, 21 Jan. 2025
Verb
To reduce discomfort during these procedures, you will be sedated or under general anesthesia. Lindsay Curtis, Health, 16 Feb. 2025 One man, who was a wheelchair user, was heavily sedated and taken across the U.S.-Mexico border, and was later found dead in a hotel in Mexico City, per NBC News and the AP. Bailey Richards, People.com, 22 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sedate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for sedate
Adjective
  • From its origins as a solemn feast day to its transformation into a global celebration of Irish heritage, St. Patrick's Day is a meaningful occasion for many.
    David Faris, Newsweek, 17 Mar. 2025
  • Earlier this month, Francis participated virtually in the Vatican’s weeklong spiritual retreat, an annual gathering that kicks off the Catholic Church’s solemn Lenten season leading to Easter.
    Angela Yang, NBC News, 16 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Once water has been introduced, provide the dog with treats and praise while bathing them, and remain calm and confident.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 21 Mar. 2025
  • For example, research at the Ivey Business School reveals that temperance (being calm, composed, patient, prudent, and self-controlled) is one of the weakest character dimensions for many people.
    Mary Crossan, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • Most are unable to rise above the stylistic miasma of the production — Whitehead sounds narcotized even when Pip isn’t on drugs — or the entirely new words they’ve been asked to say.
    Robert Lloyd, Los Angeles Times, 24 Mar. 2023
  • The smartphone, for all its wonder and utility, has also proved to be a narcotizing agent.
    Derek Thompson, The Atlantic, 17 Dec. 2019
Adjective
  • After a serious makeover that began in 2023, The WaterShed now features 25 new interactive exhibits as well as a collection of public art.
    Olivia Brandon, Idaho Statesman, 23 Mar. 2025
  • At the time, there was serious anxiety about whether attendance and viewership could recover.
    Becky Sullivan, NPR, 23 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • After a brief moment of serene silence, a humpback whale surges up from below the frame and punches through the school of fish.
    Kelli Bender, People.com, 26 Mar. 2025
  • The Bulgarian, known for his serene disposition and velvet touch, ranks as the top goalscorer in sub-zero matches with nine goals — although five of these came in Manchester United’s 7-1 mauling of Blackburn Rovers in November 2010, skewing the results somewhat.
    Conor O'Neill, New York Times, 26 Mar. 2025
Verb
  • The slow ride across is relaxing and often yields dolphin sightings.
    Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Southern Living, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Patients can also learn to perform self-trigger point release at home using their own fingers, a partner, a pelvic wand or vaginal dilators to help relax the internal muscles.
    Julianna Bragg, CNN, 22 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Fast forward five years and Faris is still trying to find a balance between being a fun, yet stern, mom.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 20 Mar. 2025
  • In Volusia County, where Daytona Beach has long had a reputation for being a spring break party destination, Sheriff Mike Chitwood issued a stern warning.
    Kinsey Crowley, USA TODAY, 8 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • King’s leadership, however, unified millions across America through peaceful protests, marches, and eloquent advocacy.
    Dan Pontefract, Forbes, 22 Mar. 2025
  • Whether a studio or a four-bedroom home, the sleeper chair will fit perfectly in any space and guarantee a peaceful night’s sleep.
    Sophia Beams, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 Mar. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Sedate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/sedate. Accessed 4 Apr. 2025.

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