serenity
suh-REN-uh-tee
/səˈrɛnɪti/
The state of being calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
Implies a deep, undisturbed inner peace that remains unaffected by external chaos.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin word 'serenus', which was originally used by the Romans to describe clear, fair, and unclouded weather. Over time, it was beautifully adapted to describe a calm and unclouded human mind.
Word relationships
- tranquility: Tranquility often refers to a quiet, peaceful environment, whereas serenity is more focused on an internal, emotional state of calm.
- peace: Peace is a very broad term that can mean the absence of war or noise, while serenity is a refined, elevated state of mental stillness.
- turmoil: A state of great disturbance, confusion, or uncertainty.
- agitation: A state of anxiety or nervous excitement, the opposite of calm.
Commonly confused with
- placidity: Placidity can sometimes imply a lack of intelligence or a dull, unfeeling calmness, whereas serenity is always positive and deeply aware.
Word family
- serene (adjective): Calm, peaceful, and untroubled.
- serenely (adverb): In a calm, peaceful, and untroubled manner.
Collocations
- absolute serenity
- sense of serenity
- peace and serenity
Example sentences
- "She sat by the lake at dawn, enjoying the absolute serenity of the misty morning." A novel describing a peaceful morning.
Memory hook
Think of a 'serene' scene. A quiet, green forest with a still lake. That scene gives you 'serenity'. A clear, unclouded mind.
When not to use
Do not use to describe simple silence or lack of movement if there is no underlying sense of peace.
Fun facts
- The 'Serenity Prayer,' written by theologian Reinhold Niebuhr in the 1930s, has become one of the most famous modern texts associated with recovery and mental peace.
Related words
Explore more words
serene, tranquil, imperturbable, equanimity, unruffled, ataraxia
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