I. ˈkäm, ˈkälm, ˈkam, ˈkȯ(l)m noun
Etymology: Middle English calme, probably ultimately from Old Spanish calma, from Late Latin cauma heat, from Greek kauma, from kaiein to burn
Date: 14th century
1.
a. : a period or condition of freedom from storms, high winds, or rough activity of water
b. : complete absence of wind or presence of wind having a speed no greater than one mile (1.6 kilometers) per hour — see Beaufort scale table
2. : a state of tranquillity
II. verb
Date: 14th century
intransitive verb
: to become calm — usually used with down
transitive verb
: to make calm — often used with down
III. adjective
Date: 14th century
1. : marked by calm : still
a calm sea
2. : free from agitation, excitement, or disturbance
a calm manner
• calm·ly adverb
• calm·ness noun
Synonyms:
calm , tranquil , serene , placid , peaceful mean quiet and free from disturbance. calm often implies a contrast with a foregoing or nearby state of agitation or violence
the protests ended, and the streets were calm again
tranquil suggests a very deep quietude or composure
the tranquil beauty of a formal garden
serene stresses an unclouded and lofty tranquillity
watched the sunset of a serene summer's evening
placid suggests an undisturbed appearance and often implies a degree of complacency
remained placid despite the criticism
peaceful implies a state of repose in contrast with or following strife or turmoil
grown peaceful in old age