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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 Encased in a precious domed sapphire crystal, the watch features a dial that captures the fleeting moments when the darkness of night transitions into the first light of day, reflecting the serene beauty of early morning skies. Bhanu Chopra, Forbes, 10 Dec. 2024 La Roca Village’s seamless integration of fashion, art and dining, coupled with its traffic-free, serene setting, allows visitors to enjoy the perks of city shopping without the typical chaos, providing an ideal retreat for those seeking both excitement and relaxation. Fairchild Studio, WWD, 7 Dec. 2024 Consider adding subtle lighting or unique decor to draw attention to the architectural details and transform your space into a serene, airy retreat. Macie Stump, Southern Living, 6 Dec. 2024 The house overflows with a serene sort of love amidst the chaos, everyone working toward salvation. Holly Jones, Variety, 6 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for serene 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • His quiet home in Tupelo, Mississippi was raided by dozens of vehicles of police and federal investigators, and Curtis was arrested for an unthinkable crime: Sending letters to government officials, including President Barack Obama, that were laced with ricin, a lethal poison.
    Barry Levitt, TIME, 11 Dec. 2024
  • These cabins are slightly away from the main lodge, providing a quiet getaway for guests looking to enjoy nature.
    Taylor McIntyre, Travel + Leisure, 11 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • The show’s continuing appeal hinges largely on Guralnik; her calm demeanor and sharp analytical framing guide the participants (and the audience) toward astute insights about their relationship patterns.
    Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 12 Dec. 2024
  • His calm demeanor has received a lot of attention on TikTok (@ohsosnoopy), gathering 408,500 views and 74,000 likes.
    Gordon G. Chang, Newsweek, 11 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • At around noon, attendees arrived at Lauder’s residence, a surprisingly tranquil refuge.
    Ian Malone, Vogue, 10 Dec. 2024
  • On floating shelves above her rest small potted plants, signs of organic life amid a tranquil technological ecosystem.
    Kyle Chayka, The New Yorker, 20 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • The peaceful gathering quickly escalated into violent clashes as protesters and officers engaged in running altercations through the city's streets.
    Joseph Epstein, Newsweek, 10 Dec. 2024
  • The United Nations as Leviathan: Global Governance in the Post-American World Rich argues that the United Nations is the only body capable of generating a peaceful and cooperative order in the emerging post-American world.
    Kal Raustiala, Foreign Affairs, 10 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Even as the weapon appeared to jam, the shooter remained composed, standing over Thompson and firing again before walking away, leaving behind bullet casings inscribed with messages, multiple news outlets reported.
    Phaedra Trethan, USA TODAY, 6 Dec. 2024
  • Every scouting report starts with how to contain the 6-foot-7 post, who has become more composed, stronger and better conditioned as a junior.
    Sabreena Merchant, The Athletic, 25 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Specifically, the ups and downs—the building booms and busts, the trendy neighborhoods turned ghostly blocks, the placid stretches to violent storms—of South Florida.
    Nick Remsen, Vogue, 4 Dec. 2024
  • The image is a cousin of Sister Hannah’s basket, too, an apocalypse as placid as an afternoon of apple picking.
    Jackson Arn, The New Yorker, 7 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • The mineral is involved in over 300 functions of the body and contributes to everything from restful sleep to heart health to a strong immune system.
    Ana Morales, Vogue, 5 Dec. 2024
  • Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock, Sound Machine, Smart Light Buy Now On Amazon $169.99 With this new, smart Hatch Restore 2 Alarm Clock, say goodbye to grogginess and hello to restful sleep that will power a busy day.
    Carina Brackett, Variety, 5 Dec. 2024
Adjective
  • Furthermore, the court found that the act burdens businesses with significant compliance costs—projected to exceed $22 billion in the first year alone—without clear safeguards against misuse of collected data.
    Matthew F. Erskine, Forbes, 4 Dec. 2024
  • Available at 40% off for Cyber Monday, this robot can vacuum and mop your floors, and its base station will automatically suck out all the collected dirt, wash the mops, dry them, and refill the water tank, delivering a truly hands-free experience.
    PCMAG, PCMAG, 2 Dec. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near serene

Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on serene

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