equanimity
ee-kwuh-NIM-ih-tee
/ˌekwəˈnɪməti/
Mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation.
Equanimity is more than just being 'calm'; it is a deep, unshakable stability of mind.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'aequanimitas,' combining 'aequus' (even/level) and 'animus' (mind/spirit). It is the literal 'level-headedness.'
Word relationships
- composure: Composure is the outward appearance of being calm; equanimity is the internal state.
- agitation: Agitation is a state of anxiety or nervous excitement.
Commonly confused with
- indifference: Indifference is not caring; equanimity is caring but remaining calm.
Collocations
- disturb one's equanimity
- maintain equanimity
- remarkable equanimity
Example sentences
- "Be like the promontory against which the waves continually break, but it stands firm and tames the fury of the water around it." Stoic philosophy.
- "She accepted both the praise and the criticism with the same quiet equanimity." A high-pressure work environment.
Memory hook
Equanimity is having an 'equal' (even) 'animus' (mind). An even mind.
When not to use
Don't use it for simple relaxation; it implies a state maintained during stress.
Fun facts
- The word 'animated' comes from the same 'animus' root, but while animation is movement, equanimity is stillness.
Explore more words
unflappable, composure, imperturbable, tranquil, ataraxia, unruffled
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