calm
/kɑːm/Peaceful and quiet; free from agitation or disturbance
She tried to stay calm during the interview.
She tried to remain peaceful and composed during the interview.
Can also describe a person's demeanor or a situation's atmosphere.
To make or become calm; to soothe or pacify
The nurse calmed the crying baby with a lullaby.
The nurse soothed the crying baby with a lullaby.
Often used as a verb to describe the action of making something calm.
A state of tranquility or absence of strong emotion
The calm before the storm was eerie.
The peacefulness before the storm was eerie.
Can refer to a period of quiet before a turbulent event.
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💡Pro Tip
Usage as a verb
When using 'calm' as a verb, it can be followed by 'down' to emphasize the action of becoming less agitated.
⚡Gold Rule
Adjective vs. verb
Remember that 'calm' can function as both an adjective and a verb, with slightly different meanings.
📖Word Origin
From Middle English 'calme,' from Old French 'calme,' from Latin 'cauma,' meaning 'heat of the day,' from Greek 'kauma,' meaning 'burning heat.' The sense of 'peaceful' developed in the 16th century.
📝Usage Notes
Can be used as an adjective, verb, or noun. As a verb, it is often followed by 'down' to mean 'to become less agitated.'