WordGarden.ioequanimity
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌiːkwənˈɪmɪti/
US
- /ˌikwəˈnɪmɪti/
Meanings
Noun
calm composure, especially under stress
Beyond the definition
Imagine a seasoned sailor in a fierce storm. They do not panic with every wave but keep a steady hand on the wheel. That is equanimity in action. It is the ability to stay mentally and emotionally steady, especially when life becomes hard or uncertain.
Equanimity does not mean feeling nothing. It means not letting your feelings take complete control. A person with equanimity can face trouble with balance and self-control instead of being carried away by fear, anger, or excitement. People often connect it with wisdom or meditation, but it is just as useful in ordinary daily life.
Equanimity is a state of mental calmness, composure, and evenness of temper, especially in a difficult situation. It's more than just being calm; it's about maintaining that inner stability despite external chaos or internal turmoil. The word comes from the Latin aequus animus, meaning "equal mind."
Historically, equanimity has deep roots in Buddhist philosophy, where it's considered a key virtue for achieving enlightenment. It's one of the four Brahmaviharas (divine abodes) – alongside loving-kindness, compassion, and sympathetic joy. In this context, equanimity isn't about indifference; it's about accepting reality as it is without clinging or aversion.
However, you don't need to be a Buddhist monk to experience equanimity! It can manifest in everyday life. A negotiator who remains calm under pressure demonstrates equanimity. A parent responding patiently to a child's tantrum displays equanimity. A doctor delivering difficult news with compassion and steadiness embodies it.
You might say, "Despite the devastating loss, she faced the future with remarkable equanimity," or "His equanimity in the face of criticism was admirable." It suggests a strength of character that allows someone to navigate life's ups and downs without being overwhelmed. It's about finding an inner balance that isn't easily disturbed – a quiet center amidst the storm.
Examples
- 1
Travel disruption
Even when the flight was canceled, Marta spoke to the staff with surprising equanimity.
- 2
Management
Good managers need equanimity when a project starts to go wrong.
- 3
Praise and criticism
He accepted both praise and criticism with the same equanimity.
- 4
Meditation
Years of meditation gave her a kind of equanimity that helped in difficult meetings.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Losing calm
His equanimity finally cracked when he heard that the documents were missing.
- Phraseequanimity cracked
he stopped staying calm
See also
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- equanimitynoun