restful

American  

[rest-fuhl] / ˈrɛst fəl /

adjective

1. giving or conducive to rest.

   Antonyms:

   disturbing

2. being at rest; quiet; tranquil; peaceful.

   Synonyms:

   undisturbed, serene, calm

   Antonyms:

   agitated

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restful British  

/ ˈrɛstfʊl /

adjective

1. giving or conducive to rest

2. being at rest; tranquil; calm

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Other Word Forms

• restfully adverb
• restfulness noun
• unrestful adjective
• unrestfully adverb
• unrestfulness noun

Etymology

Origin of restful

Middle English word dating back to 1300–50; see origin at rest ¹, -ful

Explanation

Something that's restful soothes you or helps you to relax. At the end of a long, busy day, a hot bath can be restful. Chasing your three year-old cousin around a playground in the hot sun for an hour isn't particularly restful, but you might follow that up with a restful nap in a comfortable hammock. Anything peaceful and quiet is restful. The word adds the suffix -ful, "full of" or "characterized by," to rest, which comes from a Germanic root meaning "rest, repose, or peace."

Example Sentences

Focusing on one or two places may create a more restful vacation.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

The first few days in Milan were anything but restful, with Cizeron facing questions from reporters about Papadakis's book, and Fournier Beaudry being asked about the case involving her former partner.

From Barron's • Feb. 10, 2026

In contrast to those who say the colour is boring, Robinson sees it as "adaptable" and says it's best used in "bedrooms and living areas where you want a serene, restful atmosphere".

From BBC • Dec. 19, 2025

Can you suggest some things to do to have a restful, relaxing and energizing weekend that is affordable and can help make unique memories?

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 8, 2025

There was something restful about it, something orderly and reassuring.

From "The Things They Carried" by Tim O'Brien

Related Words

• relaxed
• relaxing
• serene
• tranquil