aplomb

noun

ə-ˈpläm How to pronounce aplomb (audio)
Definition of aplombnext
1
as in composure
evenness of emotions or temper you've handled a difficult situation with perfect aplomb

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in confidence
great faith in oneself or one's abilities carried herself with the dignity and aplomb of a born leader

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, confidence, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

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 aplomb Yet another bracelet that Kate has worn with aplomb this summer is a friendship bracelet, given to her by Charlotte as Kate took part in the Three Peaks Challenge late last month. — Rachel Burchfield, InStyle, 13 July 2026 That’s largely thanks to star Lexi Minetree’s ability to step into a role made famous by no less than Reese Witherspoon with aplomb. — Emma Specter, Vogue, 1 July 2026 Played with aplomb by newcomer Kevin de Paula, the striker’s nifty footwork, rooted in the tradition of ginga, speaks louder than any self-congratulations. — Jon O'Brien, Vulture, 26 June 2026 Xhaka then found Vargas in deep for another pass to Manzambi, who finished with aplomb. — ABC News, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for aplomb
Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb
  1. composure
  2. confidence
  3. assurance
  4. self-assurance
  5. self-assuredness
Noun
  • Ampadu’s tenacity in the tackle, composure on the ball and his long throw — an emerging weapon — all contributed to the team’s strong showings.
    — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Willis showed good composure, arm strength, accuracy and decision-making, going 4-for-5 passing for 43 yards while leading the Dolphins on a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive.
    — Chris Perkins, Sun Sentinel, 15 Aug. 2026
Definition of composure
Noun
  • Each of those positions experienced a boost of confidence or a seed of concern since players reported to camp three weeks ago.
    — Paul Dehner Jr, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • Redefining How Fashion Is Bought If the early wave of e-commerce was about access and the mobile era was about convenience, the next phase, agentic commerce, will be defined by confidence.
    — Footwear News, Footwear News, 18 Aug. 2026
Definition of confidence
Noun
  • Among the areas covered by the new measures are backups, incident response, risk management and security assurance, with later phases requiring further testing of clubs’ ability to recover from cyber incidents.
    — Amelie Claydon, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026
  • While there were previous assurances under the Biden administration that the site would reopen once construction was complete, that does not appear to be the case now.
    — Alexandra Mendoza, San Diego Union-Tribune, 17 Aug. 2026
Definition of assurance
Noun
  • The 25-year-old from California opened the final with some swagger, popping four aces in the first game, but his self-assurance quickly ebbed.
    — Ava Wallace, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026
  • The most consistent signature across her growing catalogue is her self-assurance as a performer.
    — Larisha Paul, Rolling Stone, 7 Aug. 2026
Definition of self-assurance
Noun
  • Pride is also about developing confidence and self-assuredness to do hard things.
    — Carolyn O'Laughlin, CNN Money, 28 June 2026
  • Peterson showcased a swagger that toed the line between confidence and self-assuredness often seen in superstar athletes.
    — Shreyas Laddha, Kansas City Star, 24 June 2026
Definition of self-assuredness

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aplenty
aplomb
apocalypse
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Cite this Entry

“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 20 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on aplomb

Nglish: Translation of aplomb for Spanish Speakers

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