composed

adjective

com·​posed kəm-ˈpōzd How to pronounce composed (audio)
: free from agitation : calm
especially : self-possessed
They tried to remain composed throughout the ordeal.
composedly adverb
composedness noun
Choose the Right Synonym for composed

cool, composed, collected, unruffled, imperturbable, nonchalant mean free from agitation or excitement.

cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

Examples of composed in a Sentence

He had told us he felt nervous about the performance, but he seemed perfectly composed when he walked onto the stage. They tried to remain composed throughout the ordeal.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
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 Today Diddy seemed more composed, though how long that will last is TBD. Dominic Patten, Deadline, 16 May 2025 Tatum carries himself like Clark Kent – quiet and composed. Bill Speros, Boston Herald, 14 May 2025 The speech was met with interruptions from hecklers, prompting Kennedy to remain composed and even express gratitude for the lessons learned from such interactions. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for composed

Word History

Etymology

see compose

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of composed was in 1607

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Cite this Entry

“Composed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/composed. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

Kids Definition

composed

adjective
com·​posed kəm-ˈpōzd How to pronounce composed (audio)
: being calm and in control : self-possessed
composedly adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on composed

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