noun
quietude
KWY-uh-tood/ˈkwaɪətuːd/
A state of calm stillness.
The still lake and empty bench convey the quietude of dawn.
Etymology
Latin quietudo named repose or tranquility, drawing on the idea of being calm and resting. Quietude retains that sense of calm as a settled state.
In context
The high pitch of Mrs. Pendleton's voice shattered the quietude like the startling clang of an unexpected bell.
More examples
- After the guests leave, quietude returns to the house.
- He longs for quietude after a hectic week.
- A few minutes of meditation bring her a sense of quietude.
Forms
quiet adjective — Free from noise, activity, or disturbance.
Similar words
- tranquility
- Emphasizes freedom from anxiety or disturbance rather than stillness.
- stillness
- Emphasizes the absence of movement or sound, not peacefulness.
- calm
- Can describe emotional composure even amid noise or activity.