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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

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 serene The design blends luxe, modern amenities with traditional Polynesian aesthetics. book villas at the Brando at Hotels.com Solitude and serenity are plentiful outside the villas: Take a serene ride on bikes provided for guests to use and explore the island. Alesandra Dubin, HollywoodReporter, 18 May 2025 At the Cowboy Carter concert at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Thursday (May 15), the serene moment was interrupted — at least for Blue, who realized the earring in her right ear was caught in Beyoncé’s hair. Ashley Iasimone, Billboard, 17 May 2025 People who responded to the survey said the Morro Bay campsite was serene and dog-friendly, while also being close to town and nature walks. Hannah Poukish, Sacbee.com, 17 May 2025 The serene and sumptuous rooms at Patina have tatami mat daybeds plus washi paper headboards inspired by Osaka Castle’s impressive granite fortifications. Kathryn Romeyn, Travel + Leisure, 14 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for serene
Recent Examples of Synonyms for serene
Adjective
  • The drama division had been relatively quiet for a period but suddenly found its stride in the past year with a string of buzzy commissions that will now mostly air under new leadership.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 3 June 2025
  • As romantic distractions fall away, the quiet also makes way for freedom.
    Faith Hill, The Atlantic, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • Few clubs can match Newcastle for its success rate with player arrivals, and that comes from being calm and patient.
    Harry De Cosemo, Forbes.com, 5 June 2025
  • The skies will likely be clear throughout the day, forecasts show, with a calm wind blowing through the city in the afternoon.
    Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • Often overlooked by its more popular neighboring regions in Spain, Extremadura offers a tranquil getaway that goes beyond the typical tourist trail.
    Carlsen Jes, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2025
  • The design of all suites on the property emphasizes indoor-outdoor living, with tranquil views and tropical foliage.
    AFAR Media, AFAR Media, 30 May 2025
Adjective
  • The attack took place during a peaceful weekly gathering of individuals, walking together to demonstrate solidarity with hostages still held in Gaza by Hamas and to call for their release.
    Sarah Fortinsky, The Hill, 2 June 2025
  • How peaceful that Nvidia is trying to expand in China.
    John Tamny, Forbes.com, 2 June 2025
Adjective
  • Prince Harry arrived at the Court of Appeal about an hour ahead of the hearing, appearing calm and composed.
    Simon Perry, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • The Mexican side looked more composed in the second half, creating more scoring opportunities, especially after Sarah Luebbert (former Chicago Red Stars and University of Missouri standout) came on as a substitute and threatened Gotham’s defense.
    Tamerra Griffin, New York Times, 21 May 2025
Adjective
  • They may be used on a placid lake, a lazy river or a backyard pool.
    BestReviews, Chicago Tribune, 30 May 2025
  • The Neshaminy Creek, placid in calm weather, turns treacherous after heavy rains, such as those that fell on Bucks County in the days before his accident.
    JD Mullane, USA Today, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • Bone broth can be consumed at any time of day—morning, afternoon, or evening—depending on your needs and goals, such as in the morning to boost energy, before or after a workout for hydration and fuel for muscles, or in the evening for restful sleep.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 28 May 2025
  • Create an optimal sleep environment: Use blackout curtains, wear an eye mask, run a white noise machine and avoid electronic devices before bed to ensure restful sleep during daylight hours.
    Marco Buscaglia, Boston Herald, 19 May 2025
Adjective
  • The tegu fossil was one of the collected specimens and was transported back to the museum in a box that sat in storage, unidentified for twenty years.
    Stephanie Edwards, Discover Magazine, 13 May 2025
  • Analysis of collected data is expected to be complete within 60 days of the tests' conclusion.
    Doug Thompson, Arkansas Online, 2 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Serene.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/serene. Accessed 10 Jun. 2025.

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