APLOMBS Synonyms: 108 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'aplomb' distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance , confidence , and self-possession . While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations. // handled the reporters with great aplomb

Q: In what contexts can 'assurance' take the place of 'aplomb'?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers. // handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

Q: When could 'confidence' be used to replace 'aplomb'?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance. // the confidence that comes from long experience

Q: When would 'self-possession' be a good substitute for 'aplomb'?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers. // answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

aplomb

noun

ə-ˈpläm

Definition of aplomb

as in composure

evenness of emotions or temper you've handled a difficult situation with perfect aplomb

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in confidence

great faith in oneself or one's abilities carried herself with the dignity and aplomb of a born leader

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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How is the word aplomb distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of aplomb are assurance, confidence, and self-possession. While all these words mean "a state of mind or a manner marked by easy coolness and freedom from uncertainty, diffidence, or embarrassment," aplomb implies a manifest self-possession in trying or challenging situations.

handled the reporters with great aplomb

In what contexts can assurance take the place of aplomb?

The words assurance and aplomb are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, assurance carries a stronger implication of certainty and may suggest arrogance or lack of objectivity in assessing one's own powers.

handled the cross-examination with complete assurance

When could confidence be used to replace aplomb?

The words confidence and aplomb can be used in similar contexts, but confidence stresses faith in oneself and one's powers without any suggestion of conceit or arrogance.

the confidence that comes from long experience

When would self-possession be a good substitute for aplomb?

While the synonyms self-possession and aplomb are close in meaning, self-possession implies an ease or coolness under stress that reflects perfect self-control and command of one's powers.

answered the insolent question with complete self-possession

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of aplomb Los Angeles may still feel like summer but attendees from Charli xcx to Off Campus star Ella Bright are embracing the autumn equinox with aplomb. — Hannah Jackson, Vogue, 27 Sep. 2026 Organizing security across multiple operating systems can be a hassle, but McAfee tackles that with aplomb. — K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 21 Sep. 2026 The Atlanta Journal-Constitution’s transportation reporter, Sara Gregory, did a wonderful write-up of this feat, which drew aplomb and attention from MARTA itself. — Doug Turnbull, AJC.com, 20 Sep. 2026 The character draws comparisons with the iconic Billy Mack, who Nighy played with aplomb in Love Actually. — Max Goldbart, Deadline, 16 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for aplomb

Recent Examples of Synonyms for aplomb

Noun

In eleven years of service, Masha had never heard her mistress speak with such lack of composure.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 13 Oct. 2026
Lily responds with monk-like composure in response to Jackie’s rude queries.

— Vikram Murthi, IndieWire, 5 Oct. 2026

Definition of composure

Noun

Unfortunately, South Korea’s situation is becoming more precarious — and thus conflict more likely — as Kim’s confidence grows and resolve weakens in Seoul and Washington.

— Dan Blumenthal, Washington Post, 27 Oct. 2026
The Field Partner Program began as a pilot in 2025 and is scaling with the 2026 crop, helping brands support regenerative agriculture goals with confidence.

— SJ Studio, Footwear News, 27 Oct. 2026

Definition of confidence

Noun

Adams added a warning to companies, along with politicians from both parties, about trying to sell false assurances of economic restoration.

— Dan Kaufman, New Yorker, 27 Oct. 2026
Those assurances preceded Machado’s dramatic reappearance Sunday at a Catholic church in Lara state and a journey across northern Venezuela that drew thousands of cheering supporters to highways and city streets.

— Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of assurance

Noun

Reiter’s character’s brash self-assurance, along with her expressive face and physicality, really complement a deadpan Wickline.

— Rima Parikh, Vulture, 27 Sep. 2026
The 25-year-old from California opened the final with some swagger, popping four aces in the first game, but his self-assurance quickly ebbed.

— Ava Wallace, New York Times, 14 Aug. 2026

Definition of self-assurance

Noun

His campaign has targeted boosting school attendance and student self-confidence as the district’s two biggest challenges.

— Sophia Veneziano, San Antonio Express-News, 16 Oct. 2026
Christina Applegate is back home and prioritizing self-confidence in the latest update on her ongoing battle with multiple sclerosis.

— Isabella Albaig, Vulture, 22 Sep. 2026

Definition of self-confidence

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aplenty

aplomb

apocalypse

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“Aplomb.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/aplomb. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of aplomb

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