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equanimity
[ ee-kwuh-nim-i-tee, ek-wuh- ]
noun
- mental or emotional stability or composure, especially under tension or strain; calmness; equilibrium.
Synonyms: aplomb, self-possession, serenity
Antonyms: agitation, discomposure, disquiet, panic
equanimity
/ ˌɛkwə-; ɪˈkwænɪməs; ˌiːkwəˈnɪmɪtɪ /
noun
- calmness of mind or temper; composure
Derived Forms
- equanimous, adjective
- eˈquanimously, adverb
Word History and Origins
Origin of equanimity1
Word History and Origins
Origin of equanimity1
Example Sentences
The text of the law recognizes that octopuses are “highly intelligent, curious, problem-solving animals” that are conscious, sentient and experience “pain, stress, and fear, as well as pleasure, equanimity, and social bonds.”
A buffeted but maintained equanimity was the hallmark of his career, from his stand-up work to his situation comedies to his many guest appearances.
After the parade, after others hollered from the sidelines for a cease-fire in the Middle East, Schiff responded with characteristic equanimity.
They listened with equanimity as lawyers for Trump protested that their client should not be subject to questioning under oath.
In her interpretation of these throbbing songs of forbidden love, she came from a place of clarity and equanimity rather than vexation and strife.
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More About Equanimity
What does equanimity mean?
Equanimity is a quality of emotional stability and composure, particularly in times of high stress.
The word equanimity is often associated with spiritual and religious practices, especially the goals of Buddhism.
The adjective form of equanimity is equanimous, which is used to describe someone or something that has such a quality.
Example: It can be difficult for students to maintain equanimity during final exams, so we encourage them to manage their stress in healthy ways.
Where does equanimity come from?
The first records of the word equanimity in English come from the early 1600s. It comes from the Latin aequanimitās, which is a combination of aequ(us), meaning “even,” “plain,” and “equal,” and anim(us), meaning “mind,” “spirit,” and “feelings.”
The word equanimity has been used in religions and philosophical practices to refer to a state of mind that people should strive for—essentially a state of calm and tranquility. Equanimity is often listed as one of Buddhism’s four “sublime states of mind,” and is equivalent to a sense of peace. It can also be used in general and secular ways. A simpler synonym is calmness.
Did you know ... ?
What are some other forms of equanimity?
- equanimous (adjective)
What are some synonyms for equanimity?
What are some words that share a root or word element with equanimity?
What are some words that often get used in discussing equanimity?
How is equanimity used in real life?
Followers of some religions and philosophies strive to achieve equanimity.
A person living in the company of those who have a vision of oneness acquires the quality of equanimity.
— Swami Avdheshanand (@AvdheshanandG) April 19, 2015
Mettā (Benevolence)
Karuṇā (Kindness)
Muditā (Empathetic joy)
Upekkhā (Equanimity)
Today & every day, let's uphold these 4 immeasurables of Buddhism, also represented in the #SriLankan flag by the 4 Bodhi leaves. @UN RC @SingerHanaa #VesakDay message https://t.co/iJQOKd5GpJ pic.twitter.com/aLMa4hPpNd— UN in Sri Lanka (@UNSriLanka) May 18, 2019
In this @MindfulOnline article, we are reminded that our mindfulness practice can allow us to stop, listen, and hold present #conversations so that, “we may embody equanimity in the face of difficulty.” https://t.co/T6wF8Gp857
— Harvard Center for Health and Happiness (@HarvardCenterHH) June 12, 2020
Try using equanimity!
Which of the following is an antonym (opposite) of equanimity?
A. calmness
B. placidity
C. balance
D. agitation
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