composure
kuhm-POH-zher
/kəmˈpoʊ.ʒər/
The state or feeling of being calm and in control of oneself.
Focuses on visible self-control and external dignity under pressure or emotional provocation.
The story behind the word. Formed from French 'composer' (to assemble or put together), composure describes a mind whose faculties are peacefully put together and in proper order, rather than thrown into chaotic disorder.
Word relationships
- poise: Poise highlights elegant posture and self-assurance, whereas composure emphasizes calm emotional control under stress.
- discomposure: Discomposure denotes feeling agitated, embarrassed, or unsettled.
Commonly confused with
- composition: Composition refers to the structure of parts or a piece of music, while composure refers to emotional self-control.
Word family
- composed (adjective): Calm, serene, and in self-control.
- composedly (adverb): In a calm and collected manner.
Collocations
- maintain composure
- regain composure
- lose one's composure
- poise and composure
Idioms & expressions
- keep a cool head
Example sentences
- "Despite severe press scrutiny, the spokesperson maintained complete composure during the broadcast." Crisis management report.
Memory hook
When you are COMPOSED, your mind pieces stay perfectly PUT TOGETHER. All parts put together in order.
When not to use
Do not confuse with structural composition (e.g., composition of music).
Fun facts
- In legal settings, 'composure' was historically used to describe peace settlements between warring families.
Related words
Explore more words
equanimity, unflappable, repose, demeanor, unruffled, imperturbable
Also appears in
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