aplomb
Americannoun
-
imperturbable self-possession, poise, or assurance.
- Synonyms:
- imperturbability, equanimity, composure
- Antonyms:
- uncertainty, doubt, discomposure, confusion
-
the perpendicular, or vertical, position.
noun
Etymology
Origin of aplomb
First recorded in 1820–30; from French à plomb “according to the plummet” (straight up and down, vertical position); cf. 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."
Vocabulary lists containing aplomb
100 Words Every Middle Schooler Should Know
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
This Week in Words: January 26 - February 1, 2019
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Hidden Figures
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“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
After successfully badgering his dad to take him to a local club to play on full-size tables at the age of eight, the young Hunter made the leap from table top snooker with aplomb.
From BBC • Jan. 2, 2026
Garnacho was the catalyst with a driving run and cross into the six-yard box, where Gusto headed home with aplomb.
From Barron's • Nov. 8, 2025
Under its army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, Pakistan has thus far navigated President Trump’s second term with more aplomb than most countries, including rival India.
From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 5, 2025
Lieutenant Uhura, portrayed by the actress Nichelle Nichols, executed her duties with aplomb, managing the ship’s communications with other ships and planets.
From "Hidden Figures" by Margot Lee Shetterly
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
