peaceful

adjective

peace·​ful ˈpēs-fəl 

1

: peaceable sense 1

They are a peaceful people.

2

: untroubled by conflict, agitation, or commotion : quiet, tranquil

the feeling … that we as neighbors could settle any disputes in peaceful fashion

—F. D. Roosevelt

3

: of or relating to a state or time of peace

… the feasibility of creating a peaceful world order.

—Alan Tonelson

4

: devoid of violence or force

The opposing groups used peaceful tactics.

peacefully

ˈpēs-fə-lē 

adverb

peacefulness noun

Synonyms

• dovish
• pacific
• pacifist
• pacifistic
• peaceable

Choose the Right Synonym for peaceful

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 peaceful in a Sentence

The park is so peaceful and quiet.

They settled the conflict by peaceful means.

We need to find a peaceful alternative to war.

Recent Examples on the Web

Twenty-six percent favor it, with 23% supporting a peaceful acquisition and 3% supporting the potential use of force. —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 12 Feb. 2025

Medical retreats are often located in tranquil settings—think serene beaches, lush forests, or peaceful mountains—that naturally promote relaxation. —Chris Gallagher, USA TODAY, 14 Feb. 2025

The film centers around a family of mice who are busy with holiday preparations in their cozy countryside home — until a human city family arrives, looking for a peaceful escape from their daily life. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 14 Feb. 2025

Personality Totally Changes 'So Grateful' The viral clip resonated with thousands of pet owners, with many commenters celebrating the pup's peaceful moment of appreciation. —Dan Perry, Newsweek, 13 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

peaceful

adjective

peace·​ful ˈpēs-fəl 

1

: enjoying peace and quiet

a peaceful people

2

: quiet entry 2 sense 1c, tranquil

a peaceful countryside

especially : not at war

3

: not involving violence or force

settled the conflict by peaceful means

peacefully

-fə-lē 

adverb

peacefulness noun