Meaning & use

aplomb

noun·Advanced

Calm self-confidence and composure, especially when facing a difficult or embarrassing situation.

See it in a sentence

She handled the reporter's hostile questions with remarkable aplomb.

Despite the power outage, the chef finished the entire dinner service with total aplomb.

A note on using this word

Aplomb is a formal, admiring word, always used positively to describe grace under pressure.

Words with a similar meaning

composurepoise

Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.

Words with an opposite meaning

nervousnesspanic

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “aplomb”, then compare your use with the examples above.

Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.