equanimity
ek-wuh-NIM-uh-tee
/ˌek.wəˈnɪm.ə.ti/
Mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation.
Represents an internal psychological balance that resists being thrown off by severe misfortune or sudden stress.
The story behind the word. Equanimity stems directly from Latin 'aequanimitas', built from 'aequus' (equal/even) and 'animus' (mind or soul). To have equanimity literally means to possess an 'equal mind' that neither plunges into despair nor skyrockets into wild emotional chaos.
Word relationships
- composure: Composure is the outward control over emotions; equanimity is the deep internal balance of mind.
- anxiety: Anxiety is nervous apprehension and internal distress.
- agitation: Agitation is a state of restless excitement or emotional upset.
Commonly confused with
- equality: Equality refers to equal rights or status; equanimity refers to emotional stability.
Collocations
- bear with equanimity
- maintain equanimity
- face with equanimity
- remarkable equanimity
Idioms & expressions
- keep an even keel
Example sentences
- "She accepted the sudden economic downturn with remarkable equanimity, immediately redesigning the business plan." Professional leadership
- "The general bore the news of defeat with characteristic equanimity." Historical account
Memory hook
EQUAL + ANIMUS = Equal mind. No matter what swings hit you, your mind stays equal. Equal mind under pressure.
When not to use
Do not use for mere physical quietness or empty silence.
Fun facts
- Sir William Osler, one of the founders of Johns Hopkins Hospital, declared equanimity the single most important quality for a physician facing life-or-death medical emergencies.
Related words
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