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equanimity

ee-kwuh-NIM-uh-tee /ˌiːkwəˈnɪmɪti/

nounC2GRESATGMATCATUPSC

formalliterary

Mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in difficult or high-stress situations.

Represents deep internal composure that remains unshakeable despite chaos, provocation, or crisis.

The story behind the word. From Latin 'aequanimitas', combining 'aequus' (level, equal) and 'animus' (mind/spirit). Stoic philosophers prized equanimity above all, viewing an 'equal mind'—one that neither explodes in joy nor collapses in grief—as the ultimate human virtue.

Word relationships

composure: Control over one's emotions and behavior in public.
serenity: A state of peaceful, tranquil calmness regardless of crisis severity.

agitation: A state of anxiety or nervous excitement.
hysteria: Uncontrollable exaggerated emotion or panic.

Commonly confused with

equality: Equality is equal status or rights; equanimity is equal balance of mind and temper.

Word family

equanimous (adjective): Calm and composed, especially under stress.
equanimously (adverb): In an even-tempered and calm manner.

Collocations

maintain equanimity
disturb equanimity
remarkable equanimity
restore equanimity

Idioms & expressions

cool under pressure
keep a cool head

Example sentences

"Throughout the severe market crash, the chief financial officer maintained absolute equanimity, reassuring nervous investors." Crisis management
"True wisdom is shown in accepting both triumph and disaster with equal equanimity." Classical literature

Memory hook

EQUAL + ANIMUS (mind) = an EQUAL, balanced mind under all conditions. EQUA-NIMITY = EQUAL mind during storm or sunshine.

When not to use

Do not use for passive laziness or lack of energy; it is an active mastery of emotional balance.

Fun facts

Sir William Osler, father of modern medicine, declared equanimity the single most vital quality for physicians to possess during surgical emergencies.