aplomb

American  

[uh-plom, uh-pluhm] / əˈplɒm, əˈplʌm /

noun

1. imperturbable self-possession, poise, or assurance.

   Synonyms:

   imperturbability, equanimity, composure

   Antonyms:

   uncertainty, doubt, discomposure, confusion

2. the perpendicular, or vertical, position.

---

aplomb British  

/ əˈplɒm /

noun

1. equanimity, self-confidence, or self-possession

---

Etymology

Origin of aplomb

First recorded in 1820–30; from French à plomb “according to the plummet” (straight up and down, vertical position); plumb ( def. )

Explanation

Aplomb is the ultimate test for cool: grace under pressure. Use aplomb to show great restraint under even the most trying circumstances. In retail, it's always a good idea to handle the angry customers with aplomb. Angry at the long lines at the grocery store? Irritated because the driver ahead cut you off? Take a deep breath, and approach life's messes with aplomb. When you think of aplomb, think cool, calm and collected. Not frazzled, furious, and fiery. Aplomb comes from the French word meaning "perpendicularity," from the phrase à plomb for "poised upright, balanced."

Example Sentences

“I was wondering how she would approach it, and she’s done it with such aplomb and wisdom.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 20, 2026

Sione Tuipulotu flung a long pass out to Ritchie, standing free on the left wing, and the blindside scored with aplomb.

From BBC • Feb. 14, 2026

The film demanded a full range of character work from Fanning, who met the challenge with her typical aplomb.

From Salon • Jan. 24, 2026

After he joined Sanders as director of research, however, he felt less pressure and regained his aplomb.

From The Wall Street Journal • Dec. 17, 2025

Duane assured the fox that he would explain everything and that it might even make an entertaining story to tell while eating sorbets, tarts, and aplomb.

From "The Very, Very Far North" by Dan Bar-el

Related Words

• equanimity
• nonchalance
• tact