ENGLISH
REFERENCE

peaceful

adj.
US //ˈpisfəɫ// UK //pˈiːsfəl// peace·ful
  1. 1 quiet and calm (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    quiet and calm, without any noise or worry.

    characterised by a state of tranquility or serenity; free from disturbance or agitation.

    Example

    The garden was very peaceful in the early morning before the city woke up.

    Example

    The lakeside retreat offered a peaceful environment where the researchers could write their reports without the constant interruptions of the main office.
  2. 2 without war or violence (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    not involving war, fighting, or violence.

    occurring without conflict, violence, or war; relating to a state of harmony between groups.

    Example

    The two countries hope to find a peaceful solution to their disagreement.

    Example

    The transition of power was remarkably peaceful, defying the predictions of political analysts who had expected civil unrest following the election results.
Show 1 more senseShow fewer
  1. 3 liking peace (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    describing a person who avoids arguments and likes to keep things calm.

    inclined toward peace or non-aggression; having a quiet and non-confrontational temperament.

    Example

    He is a peaceful man who always tries to help people get along.

    Example

    Despite his intimidating size, he possessed a peaceful nature and preferred mediation over any form of physical confrontation.
Etymology 1

From Middle English peesful, pesful, paisful, pesefull. By surface analysis, peace + -ful.

Etymology 2

Derived from the derogatory term religion of peace, which is used against Islam itself for its association with violent attacks by Islamic extremists, and alleged support and lack of condemnation against them by certain Muslim communities.

Word family

© 2026 English Reference