nounadjective

le serein

serene

C’est quand une personne est calme et tranquille, sans stress ni inquiétude.

Definition & meaning

Serein means calm, peaceful, or untroubled. It can describe a person, their state of mind, or an atmosphere.

  • Elle reste sereine malgré les difficultés. — She remains calm despite the difficulties.
  • Une ambiance sereine. — A peaceful atmosphere.

It can also describe a clear, cloudless sky, though this use is more literary.

Grammar & Word origin

Serein is an adjective. Its forms are:

  • Masculine: serein; plural: sereins
  • Feminine: sereine; plural: sereines

It comes from Latin serenus, meaning “clear” or “calm.”

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • calme — calm; a broader, everyday word.
  • paisible — peaceful; often emphasizes the absence of disturbance.
  • tranquille — quiet or relaxed; can describe both people and places.

Antonyms:

  • inquiet — worried or anxious.
  • agité — agitated or restless.
  • troublé — disturbed or unsettled.

Common phrases & collocations

  • rester serein — to remain calm
  • un esprit serein — a peaceful mind
  • un climat serein — a calm, harmonious atmosphere

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Examples

Elle garde un esprit serein en toute situation.adjective

She maintains a serene mind in every situation.

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