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composed
/kəmˈpoʊzd/
calm and in control
Despite the chaos, she remained composed.
She stayed calm and in control during the stressful situation.
formalinformal
Calm, self-possessed, and in control of one's emotions.
The negotiator was completely composed during the tense meeting.
The negotiator showed no signs of stress and handled the situation professionally.
Often used to describe someone who remains calm under pressure.
formalliterary
To create or arrange something, especially music or writing.
The composer has composed over 50 symphonies.
The composer has written or created 50 symphonies.
In this sense, 'composed' is often used in the context of music or literature.
Collocations
composed mannera calm and controlled waycomposed expressiona calm and controlled facial expressioncomposed ofmade up of or consisting of
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Adjective vs. Verb
Remember that 'composed' can be both an adjective (describing a state of calm) and a verb (meaning to create or arrange something).
Gold Rule
Context Matters
The meaning of 'composed' depends heavily on the context. In formal settings, it often describes calmness, while in creative fields, it refers to the act of creation.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'composen,' from Old French 'composer,' from Latin 'componere,' meaning 'to put together.'
Usage Notes
When used as an adjective, 'composed' describes a state of calmness. As a verb, it refers to the act of creating something, especially music or writing.
Word Breakdown
com-
together
prefix-pose
to place or arrange
root-ed
past participle or adjective form
suffixEnglish Dictionary