Definition of composurenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the noun composure contrast with its synonyms?

The words equanimity and sangfroid are common synonyms of composure. While all three words mean "evenness of mind under stress," composure implies the controlling of emotional or mental agitation by an effort of will or as a matter of habit.

maintaining his composure even under hostile questioning

When is equanimity a more appropriate choice than composure?

Although the words equanimity and composure have much in common, equanimity suggests a habit of mind that is only rarely disturbed under great strain.

accepted her troubles with equanimity

Where would sangfroid be a reasonable alternative to composure?

While in some cases nearly identical to composure, sangfroid implies great coolness and steadiness under strain.

handled the situation with professional sangfroid

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 composure On July 6, Gill remembers Wonsley gathering her composure, as more of her siblings and family members drove up to the pier. Lorena O’Neil, Rolling Stone, 30 July 2026 Diomande has the composure to draw defenders and find the spare man. Anantaajith Raghuraman, New York Times, 30 July 2026 But otherwise, King kept his composure and did a nice job of throwing on the run. Charlotte Observer, 29 July 2026 That’s why, despite intensifying fighting that sent oil briefly above $100 a barrel last last week, many oil industry analysts kept their composure. David Goldman, CNN Money, 27 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for composure
Recent Examples of Synonyms for composure
Noun
  • Banderas explained that his split from Griffith was smooth, and the two actors have remained on good terms thanks to the calmness of their breakup.
    Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 6 Aug. 2026
  • This also includes prioritizing calmness in your pacing, communication style, sensory design, customer service systems and even leadership culture.
    Prof. Dr. Anabel von Preußen - Ternès von Hattburg, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • An excellent student, Howard looks for balance and serenity in his life outside of sports.
    Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Cast your line into the river, which is surrounded by stunning mountain views, and get a taste of the serenity and challenge of fly fishing.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • The fabric is lightweight and breathable, with a cropped design that only adds coolness.
    Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 7 Aug. 2026
  • Stereo 41, Walnut Creek A bastion of late-night coolness – almost too cool – has taken root in downtown Walnut Creek.
    John Metcalfe, Mercury News, 28 July 2026
Noun
  • China’s introduction of a common buying agency has disturbed what has been an evenly balanced relationship which has sometimes favored one side over the other, but which eventually finds equilibrium.
    Tim Treadgold, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026
  • At that tipping point, the only solution is for oil prices to surge, destroying enough demand for oil that the market can return to equilibrium.
    David Goldman, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Licata and other administrators started the day at the district’s bus barn, voicing excitement and assurance that operations would be orderly for students’ return to the classroom.
    Lina Ruiz, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Aug. 2026
  • The 1999 assurances that investment returns would cover the costs of the massive pension benefit increase were absurd.
    Daniel Borenstein, Mercury News, 11 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Roberts, with his country-club equanimity, can seem like a man out of time—maddeningly or reassuringly, depending on your perspective.
    Margaret Talbot, New Yorker, 10 Aug. 2026
  • The cumulative impression of Alice that the book leaves is of someone moving serenely through life, meeting fond blessings and awful curses both with the same calm equanimity.
    Ian Penman, Harpers Magazine, 4 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Composure.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/composure. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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