1
2
3

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 Tóth creates a space that’s serene, light-filled, and utterly unique; the books themselves are hidden away, tucked behind fanlike shelves that open up in unison. David Sims, The Atlantic, 10 Jan. 2025 The good news is that the Army Corps doesn’t want to level Soka Gakkai International-USA’s serene compound. Pat Beall, Sun Sentinel, 10 Jan. 2025 Indulge in an authentic Bhutanese Hot Stone Bath, enjoy a serene soak in the indoor heated pool or take advantage of a free daily yoga class. Sandra MacGregor, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025 Whatever your personal design style, color will play a big part in setting the tone for your home, and these sage green decorating ideas can be part of a restful, serene environment. Maria Sabella, Better Homes & Gardens, 12 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for serene 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • After going quiet briefly as emergency responders grappled to contain the multiple fires that destroyed entire neighborhoods and killed at least 27 people, De Laurentiis broke her silence.
    Madeleine Marr, Miami Herald, 22 Jan. 2025
  • Try to snag a room on the third floor for ultimate peace and quiet.
    Ariel Okin, Vogue, 22 Jan. 2025
Adjective
  • Warm, funny and generally fairly calm seeming, Nimino doesn’t seem too preoccupied with his virality or with trying to top it.
    Katie Bain, Billboard, 23 Jan. 2025
  • The gains came amid relatively calm moves for Treasury yields in the U.S. bond market.
    Stan Choe, Los Angeles Times, 23 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
  • Their decision to attend underscores a commitment to the traditions of American democracy, including the peaceful transfer of power.
    Kristen Waggoner, Newsweek, 21 Jan. 2025
  • 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
Adjective
  • Being intentional about staying calm and composed projects confidence without saying a word.
    Bryan Robinson, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025
  • The Brooklyn native became the new IBF super lightweight champion with a composed and masterful boxing performance to defeat Liam Paro (25-1) on Saturday night in Puerto Rico.
    Brian Mazique, Forbes, 8 Dec. 2024
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
Adjective
  • 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
Adjective
  • The Razor Crest's heavy laser cannons could tear through most small and medium-sized ships, but its best quality was its size, providing ample space for collected bounties and acting as mobile living quarters for our chromed Mandalorian bounty hunter.
    Fran Ruiz, Space.com, 21 Jan. 2025
  • Nobody asked me, but might there be another book of collected writings by Dan Rodricks in the future?
    Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 14 Jan. 2025

Thesaurus Entries Near serene

Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 30 Jan. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on serene

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!