equanimous

American  

[i-kwahn-uh-muhs, i-kwan-] / ɪˈkwɑn ə məs, ɪˈkwæn- /

adjective

1. having or showing equanimity; even-tempered.

   It was difficult to remain equanimous in the face of such impertinence.

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Usage

What does equanimous mean? Equanimous means having emotional stability and composure, particularly in times of high stress. Equanimous is the adjective form of the noun equanimity (calmness). The quality of being equanimous is often associated with spiritual and religious practices, especially the goals of Buddhism. Example: It can be difficult for students to remain equanimous during final exams, so we encourage them to manage their stress in healthy ways.

Other Word Forms

• equanimously adverb
• equanimousness noun

Etymology

Origin of equanimous

1645–55; < Latin aequanim ( us ) ( equanimity ) + -ous

Explanation

If you're equanimous, you're serene and calm. Some people meditate or do yoga in an attempt to be more equanimous. People who are equanimous seem enviably composed and balanced. You might be equanimous about some things, remaining calm when your dog barks or your smoke alarm goes off, but less equanimous about others. Many philosophies and religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, emphasize the importance of striving to be equanimous. The word is related to equanimity, both from the Latin aequanimis, "mild or kind," or "even minded."

Example Sentences

I called the first portrait I made “Equanimity,” and I do think she developed this mechanism of being equanimous and not giving anything away, to protect herself almost.

From New York Times • Sep. 9, 2022

He appears equanimous and elegant, sitting in a back room of the Theatre Royal Bath, bearing the mildly aristocratic air of a gentleman farmer.

From The Guardian • Jul. 30, 2019

Trump’s response, in an 11:45 p.m. tweet, was equanimous by his standards.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jul. 21, 2016

Their impromptu jaunt to an upstate HoJo became a dark echo of the Disneyland adventure that launched their relationship— and this time, Megan is far less equanimous about the frozen desserts.

From Slate • Apr. 23, 2012

So long as my thumb tatters merely the margin, I am quite equanimous.

From Yet Again by Beerbohm, Max, Sir