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Synonym Chooser

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

Some common synonyms of serene are calm, peaceful, placid, and tranquil. While all these words mean "quiet and free from disturbance," serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquility.

watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening

When could calm be used to replace serene?

The meanings of calm and serene largely overlap; however, calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence.

the protests ended, and the streets were calm again

When is peaceful a more appropriate choice than serene?

While the synonyms peaceful and serene are close in meaning, peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil.

grown peaceful in old age

When would placid be a good substitute for serene?

Although the words placid and serene have much in common, placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency.

remained placid despite the criticism

When is it sensible to use tranquil instead of serene?

The words tranquil and serene are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 serene It might be best known for its summertime seaside villas but the coastline also makes for the perfect winter getaway for those looking for somewhere quiet and serene to appreciate the snow. Kaitlyn McInnis, Forbes, 25 Oct. 2024 At Shingle Creek, just outside Kissimmee, a peaceful paddle at the headwaters of the Everglades often results in spotting these serene creatures gliding through the water. Kelsey Glennon, Southern Living, 21 Oct. 2024 In addition, guests can enjoy the serene spa, a swanky rooftop bar, a sprawling sky pool, and a specialty restaurant serving seasonal fare. Abby Montanez, Robb Report, 18 Oct. 2024 The airport also offers a pre-security sensory room in its new Terminal A aimed at evoking a serene river scene. Alison Fox, Travel + Leisure, 18 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for serene 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
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
  • 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
  • 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
Adjective
  • As if a world so placid and unresponsive could excite only the opposite sensations in him.
    Greg Jackson, The New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2024
  • As the slow agony of guilt chews its way through him, Justin’s world remains largely placid, if impatient.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 1 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Magnesium is one of the most essential minerals for overall health, recognized for its broad range of benefits, from promoting restful sleep to supporting bone strength.
    Marco Rubio, Newsweek, 2 Nov. 2024
  • Its compression and massage features are designed to relax you into a restful sleep.
    Mia Meltzer, Rolling Stone, 31 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • These machine learning algorithms can quickly identify patterns and insights in collected data that would normally take much longer for a human eye to catch.
    Mahshid Ahmadi, The Conversation, 17 Sep. 2024
  • Also, finding one-of-a-kind art at the thrift is a great way to give a personal, collected look to your space.
    Betsy Cribb Watson, Southern Living, 4 Oct. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near serene

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on serene

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