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Placid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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placid

[ˈplæsɪd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

calm

pleasingly calm or peaceful; unruffled; tranquil

Synonyms

calm, peaceful, serene, tranquil, unruffled.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
placid

Suitable for describing a person or a situation that is undisturbed and relaxed. Often used when talking about a calm environment or someone's temperament.

  • She remained placid despite the chaos around her.
  • The placid lake reflected the clear blue sky.
calm

Appropriate for general use when describing the absence of agitation, excitement, or disturbance. Can be used for emotions, weather, or situations.

  • Please stay calm during the emergency.
  • The sea looks calm today.
tranquil

Used to describe a quiet and peaceful atmosphere or state of mind, free from disturbance.

  • The tranquil garden was the perfect place for meditation.
  • She found a tranquil spot by the river to read her book.
serene

Ideal for describing a high level of calmness, often with an element of beauty or spirituality. Can be used for people, nature, or any tranquil scene.

  • Her serene smile reassured everyone.
  • The mountains look especially serene at dawn.
peaceful

Best used when referring to a state where there is no war, violence, or noise. Can describe both mental states and environments.

  • After years of conflict, the region is finally peaceful.
  • I enjoy peaceful evenings at home.
unruffled

Typically used to describe a person who remains calm and composed, even in difficult situations.

  • Despite the criticism, he remained unruffled.
  • She answered the tough questions in an unruffled manner.

Examples of usage

  • The lake was placid in the early morning light.
  • She had a placid demeanor that helped everyone relax.
  • The placid atmosphere of the countryside was a welcome change from the city.
  • Despite the chaos around her, she remained placid and composed.
  • The placid expression on his face belied the storm of emotions within.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

a vast flat, often treeless expanse in a desert region

Synonyms

flat, plain, prairie, steppe.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
placid

Used to describe a person or scene that is peaceful and calm, without disturbance or excitement. It often has a positive connotation.

  • She has a placid demeanor that helps in stressful situations
  • The lake was placid and mirrored the clear blue sky
flat

Describes a surface or area that is even and without elevations; it can also describe something that lacks emotions or changes and might have a neutral or negative connotation depending on the context.

  • The pancakes turned out perfectly flat
  • His voice was flat, showing no enthusiasm
plain

Refers to something simple and without decoration; it can also mean clear or obvious. When describing a landscape, it refers to a large area of flat land.

  • She wore a plain dress to the event
  • It's plain to see that he's not interested
  • The plain stretched out as far as the eye could see
prairie

Specifically used to describe a large, open area of grassland, typically found in North America. It is a geographic term and usually neutral in tone.

  • We drove for miles across the prairie
  • The prairie was home to many species of wildlife
steppe

Refers to large, flat areas of land with grasses but few trees, commonly found in southeastern Europe or Siberia. It is more technical and specific to certain regions.

  • Nomadic tribes roamed the vast steppes of Mongolia
  • The steppe landscape is harsh and unforgiving

Examples of usage

  • The salt flats formed a placid landscape stretching as far as the eye could see.
  • The placid of the desert was a harsh environment for any living creature.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Individuals who display placid characteristics often experience lower levels of stress and anxiety.
  • Being placid can be associated with emotional stability, allowing people to manage problems more effectively.
  • In positive psychology, cultivating a placid mindset is linked to better overall well-being and happiness.

Nature

  • Many ecosystems feature placid environments, such as lakes and calm oceans, which support diverse wildlife.
  • Placid environments are vital for certain species that thrive in low-stress situations, like some fish and birds.
  • Nature-related activities, like yoga or meditation by a placid stream, can help humans reconnect with their calmness.

Art and Literature

  • Placid scenes are often depicted in painting, conveying serenity and inviting viewers to reflect and relax.
  • In literature, characters with a placid demeanor are frequently portrayed as wise or deeply introspective.
  • Famous poets, such as Wordsworth, often describe nature as placid to evoke feelings of peace and tranquility.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, ensuring a placid environment is key for practices like meditation and mindfulness.
  • Japanese Zen gardens embody placidity, designed to provide a serene space for contemplation.
  • The concept of 'placid' differs across cultures; some see it as ideal, while others might view it as a lack of passion.

Origin of 'placid'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'placid' comes from the Latin word 'placidus', meaning 'calm or pleasing'.
  • It entered the English language in the early 17th century, describing peacefulness and tranquility.
  • Related words, such as 'placebo', also derive from the same Latin root, reflecting ideas of calmness and soothing.

The word 'placid' originates from the Latin word 'placidus', meaning calm or peaceful. It has been used in English since the late 17th century to describe a state of tranquility or serenity. The concept of placidity has been valued across cultures as a desirable state of mind and environment, reflecting a sense of harmony and balance.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,294, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.