Stillness: meaning, definitions and examples

🌿

Add to dictionary

stillness

[ˈstɪlnəs ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in meditation

Complete absence of movement or sound; tranquility.

Synonyms

calmness, quietness, silence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stillness	Used to describe a complete absence of movement or sound, often in nature or to convey a sense of peace or tranquility. The stillness of the forest was interrupted only by the occasional rustle of leaves The lake mirrored the sky, its surface unbroken in perfect stillness
silence	Describes the complete absence of sound. Can be used in various situations, ranging from a measure of respect or anticipation, to conveying discomfort or awkwardness. The teacher demanded silence before beginning the lesson An awkward silence fell over the room after his controversial statement
quietness	Emphasizes the low volume of sound, typically describing an environment. It can also refer to the subdued nature of a person's behavior or speech. The quietness of the library made it easy to concentrate on reading He appreciated the quietness of her voice, which was soothing and gentle
calmness	Refers to a state of mental or emotional peace, often describing a person's demeanor or the atmosphere of a place. Her calmness in the face of the emergency was remarkable The calmness of the evening was a welcome respite after a hectic day

Examples of usage

The stillness of the early morning was calming.
He sat in stillness, focusing on his breathing.
The stillness of the forest was interrupted only by the occasional chirping of birds.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

in nature

The state of being tranquil, calm, and without disturbance.

Synonyms

peacefulness, quietness, serenity.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stillness	Use to describe a complete absence of movement or sound, often with an emphasis on calm and immobility. The stillness of the early morning was interrupted only by the chirping of birds. She meditated, finding a sense of stillness within herself.
peacefulness	Best for describing a state of calm and tranquility, often implying absence of conflict or disturbance. The peacefulness of the countryside made it the perfect place for a relaxing weekend. He enjoyed the peacefulness of the empty beach.
serenity	Refers to an untroubled, peaceful state, often more profound and associated with deep inner peace. The painting depicted the serenity of a sunset over the ocean. He found serenity in the routine of his daily walks in the park.
quietness	Used when referring to a low level of noise, implying silence or less sound. It does not necessarily imply calm or peace. The quietness of the library was perfect for studying. She appreciated the quietness of the room after the party ended.

Examples of usage

The stillness of the lake mirrored the clear blue sky.
She found solace in the stillness of the mountains.
The stillness of the desert at night was eerie yet beautiful.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

in atmosphere

A feeling of calmness and quiet in a place.

Synonyms

calm, peace, tranquility.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
stillness	Used when referring to a complete lack of movement and sound, often in a natural setting or a quiet moment. The stillness of the early morning was interrupted by the chirping of birds. The forest was in perfect stillness as the sun began to set.
tranquility	Similar to serenity, but often used to describe a quiet and calm environment, particularly in nature. She enjoyed the tranquility of her garden in the early morning hours. The small village was known for its tranquility and charm.
peace	Often used to describe a state of no conflict, stress, or war. It can apply to both mental states and societal conditions. After years of turmoil, the country finally experienced peace. She found peace in meditation and yoga.
calm	Refers to a state of peace and quiet without disturbances, often used for both situations and people. He took deep breaths to remain calm during the stressful meeting. The sea was unusually calm that evening.

Examples of usage

The stillness of the room was palpable.
There was a sense of stillness in the air before the storm.
The stillness of the library was conducive to studying.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Old English 'still,' meaning firm or quiet.
Related words include 'stillness' in Middle English, which referred to calmness or tranquility.
The concept has evolved through various languages but retains the core idea of calmness.

Philosophy

Stillness is often associated with mindfulness and meditation practices which emphasize slowing down and being present.
In various philosophical traditions, such as Stoicism, stillness is seen as vital for self-control and focus.
Some philosophies suggest that true wisdom comes in moments of stillness and reflection.

Science

Research shows that moments of stillness can lower stress levels and improve overall mental well-being.
Biological studies indicate that periods of stillness can enhance clarity of thought and creativity.
Stillness is essential in nature; many animals rely on remaining motionless to avoid predators or to hunt.

Literature

Writers and poets often use stillness as a motif to evoke a sense of peace or tension in their works.
It appears prominently in nature writing, symbolizing a deep connection to the natural world.
The concept of stillness is explored in various literary movements, including Romanticism, which emphasizes introspection.

Art

Artists might capture stillness through serene landscapes, using soft color palettes to evoke peace.
In photography, stillness can be portrayed by creating long exposures that capture tranquil settings.
Many famous sculptures reflect stillness in their design, expressing calm through shape and form.

Translations

Translations of the word "stillness" in other languages:

🇵🇹 quietude

🇮🇳 शांति

🇩🇪 Stille

🇮🇩 keheningan

🇺🇦 тиша

🇵🇱 cisza

🇯🇵 静けさ (shizukesa)

🇫🇷 calme

🇪🇸 quietud

🇹🇷 sessizlik

🇰🇷 고요 (goyo)

🇸🇦 سكون

🇨🇿 klid

🇸🇰 pokoj

🇨🇳 静止 (jìngzhǐ)

🇸🇮 mirnost

🇮🇸 kyrrð

🇰🇿 тыныштық

🇬🇪 მშვიდობა (mshvidoba)

🇦🇿 sakitlik

🇲🇽 quietud

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,576, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
12573 informants
12574 dost
12575 swallowing
12576 stillness
12577 swarm
12578 nominee
12579 prestigious
...