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Repose

n. calm, joyful literary

What it means

A state of restful calm, stillness, or dignified ease.

Reach for it when using graceful language for restorative or composed rest

The shaded courtyard offered an hour of repose after the journey.

Words to choose between 6

By register, from playful at the top to literary at the bottom. Tap a word to see when it fits.
everyday
warm
formal
literary

  • everyday

    rest

    Fits when recovery from effort is the simple point

    Careful Rest may be restless or brief.

  • warm

    relaxation

    Fits when tension is released

    Careful Relaxation is more everyday.

  • warm

    respite

    Fits when temporary relief from strain is central

    Careful Respite implies a preceding burden.

  • formal

    composure

    Fits when calm self-command is visible

    Careful Composure is not physical rest.

  • literary

    quietude

    Fits when peaceful stillness shapes the atmosphere

    Careful Quietude can describe a place.

  • literary

    tranquility

    Fits when deep freedom from disturbance matters

    Careful Tranquility need not involve resting.

Opposites 3

  • agitation
  • exertion
  • restlessness

Common phrases 3

  • hour of repose

    An hour of repose restored her concentration.

  • peaceful repose

    The old dog lay in peaceful repose by the stove.

  • place of repose

    The alcove became a place of repose for visitors.

Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated