Synonym Chooser

How is the word unruffled different from other adjectives like it?

Some common synonyms of unruffled are collected, composed, cool, imperturbable, and nonchalant. While all these words mean "free from agitation or excitement," unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

When could collected be used to replace unruffled?

While in some cases nearly identical to unruffled, collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

When can composed be used instead of unruffled?

While the synonyms composed and unruffled are close in meaning, composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

When would cool be a good substitute for unruffled?

The meanings of cool and unruffled largely overlap; however, cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

When is imperturbable a more appropriate choice than unruffled?

Although the words imperturbable and unruffled have much in common, imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

In what contexts can nonchalant take the place of unruffled?

The synonyms nonchalant and unruffled are sometimes interchangeable, but nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

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 unruffled To onlookers, the 15-year-old appears calm, unruffled; characteristics which would become her hallmark over the next decade or so of competition. Aimee Lewis, CNN, 27 July 2024 The tradition of wearing white at Wimbledon also began during this era in 1890, primarily because white garments were seen as a way to avoid showing perspiration, a crucial consideration in the social dynamics of the time where women were expected to appear composed and unruffled. Jon Haworth, ABC News, 9 July 2024 But where the standard Meyers heroine would fuss herself into a fugue state of approbation, Anne remains oddly unruffled. Sophie Gilbert, The Atlantic, 29 June 2024 The unruffled Anne probably regards Théo as a household problem to be managed, more Pierre’s project anyway. Nicolas Rapold, Los Angeles Times, 28 June 2024 See all Example Sentences for unruffled 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for unruffled
Adjective
  • In years where solar activity is calmer, pockets of cold air form high in the atmosphere, which results in colder winters and stronger easterly winds over northern Europe and the northern U.S..
    Corey Buhay, Outside Online, 7 Nov. 2024
  • The first night was calm and he was just getting used to his new environment, but the next morning everything was different.
    Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • Housing up to 14 people, a group of friends or family reunion can enjoy a comfortable space in a serene setting.
    Nicole Kliest, Vogue, 2 Nov. 2024
  • The figure’s serene posture against the backdrop of the ocean resonated deeply with them, leading to quiet contemplation.
    Laura Parker, Forbes, 30 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • Trump returns to White House for symbolic meeting President-elect Donald Trump will meet with President Joe Biden today in a symbolic White House ceremony meant to signal the peaceful transfer of power.
    Elizabeth Robinson, NBC News, 13 Nov. 2024
  • The system proved incapable of punishing Trump personally for his concerted, multifaceted refusal to accept his defeat and accept a peaceful transfer of power in 2020.
    Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs, 7 Nov. 2024
Adjective
  • This leader knows when to lean in, signaling approachability, and when to maintain a composed silence, showcasing quiet confidence.
    Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024
  • Stay composed and resilient with empathy, which should help ease tension in the room.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes, 23 Sep. 2024
Adjective
  • Now available for 40% off ahead of Black Friday, this robovac can clean and mop your floors, while the station will suck out all the collected dirt, wash the mops, dry them out, and refill the water tank, delivering a hands-free experience.
    Gabriela Vatu, PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024
  • Once the cherries have been pitted—adults may want to help younger kids with this, or at least closely supervise them—kiddos can dump out the collected pits into the trash.
    Holly Klamer, MS, Parents, 25 June 2024
Adjective
  • The Adults-Only concept is catered to couples, offering a tranquil environment with private areas designed for relaxation, perfect after the wedding festivities have finished.
    Lopesan Costa Bavaro Contributor, Forbes, 1 Nov. 2024
  • Dinner was a feast of arctic char and skagen at the inn’s 130-year-old restaurant, which is open until Christmas and was distinctly tranquil after the summer rush.
    Madeline Weinfield, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 Oct. 2024
Adjective
  • As if a world so placid and unresponsive could excite only the opposite sensations in him.
    Greg Jackson, The New Yorker, 3 Nov. 2024
  • As the slow agony of guilt chews its way through him, Justin’s world remains largely placid, if impatient.
    Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 1 Nov. 2024

Thesaurus Entries Near unruffled

Cite this Entry

“Unruffled.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/unruffled. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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