calm
Peaceful and free from agitation or strong emotion.
Word facts
Definition
Calm describes a state of peace and quiet, free from agitation, excitement, or strong emotion. As a verb, to calm means to make or become less anxious or disturbed.
Usage: Calm describes both external conditions (a calm sea) and internal states (a calm mind). Serene implies a deeper, more lasting peace. Tranquil is often used for settings.
Example sentences
- 1
Despite the chaos around her, she remained completely calm.
- 2
He took a deep breath to calm his nerves before speaking.
- 3
The lake was perfectly calm in the early morning light.
Word family
From Old French calme and Italian calma ('stillness, quiet'), possibly from Greek kauma ('heat of the day') — the hottest part of the day when everything is still.
The 'l' in calm is silent — and silence itself is calm.
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FAQ
Questions people ask
Is the l in calm silent?
Yes. Calm is pronounced KAHM — the l is silent, like palm and psalm.
What is the noun form of calm?
Calmness is the main noun. Calm itself can also be used as a noun: 'a sudden calm fell over the crowd'.