adjective
Common
composed
kuhm-POHZD
Composed (adjective) means Calm and in control of one's emotions. Example: “Despite the chaos, she remained perfectly composed.”
adjective
1
Calm and in control of one's emotions.
"Despite the chaos, she remained perfectly composed."
"He stayed composed during the interview, answering every question in a steady voice."
"Though nervous inside, the young pilot looked composed as she addressed the passengers."
How to use composed
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishCool, calm, and collected under pressure.
Common pairings
stay composed
calm and composed
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like composed.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Comparative
- more composed
- Superlative
- most composed
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Despite the chaos, she remained perfectly _____.
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
discomposed
Related words
Rhymes for composed
posed
hosed
closed
exposed
opposed
supposed
disposed
enclosed
proposed
disclosed
unopposed
indisposed
See all rhymes for composed →
Frequently asked questions
What does “composed” mean?
The word “composed” means calm and in control of one's emotions. In plain terms, cool, calm, and collected under pressure.
How do you pronounce “composed”?
“Composed” is pronounced kuhm-POHZD (/kəmˈpoʊzd/ in IPA).
How do you use “composed” in a sentence?
Here is “composed” used in a sentence: “Despite the chaos, she remained perfectly composed.”
What part of speech is “composed”?
“Composed” is an adjective.
Is “composed” a common word?
“Composed” is a fairly common word in modern English.
What is the difference between 'composed' and 'calm'?
Both describe a lack of agitation, but 'composed' specifically means calm and in control of one's emotions, often under pressure. 'Calm' is broader and can describe a peaceful state or environment generally, not just self-control in a difficult moment.
What is the difference between 'composed' and 'agitated'?
'Composed' means calm and in control of one's emotions, while 'agitated' means the opposite: visibly upset, restless, or disturbed. Someone who stays composed keeps their emotions steady, whereas an agitated person does not.
In what situations is someone described as 'composed'?
'Composed' is typically used when someone remains calm and in control of their emotions during a stressful or testing situation, such as an interview, a crisis, or bad news. It emphasises self-possession rather than mere quietness.
Featured in
Vocabulary lists that include composed: