peaceful
UK: ˈpiːsf(ə)l | US: ˈpiːsf(ə)l
adj. free from disturbance; calm or tranquil
adj. not involving violence or conflict
adj. (of a person) inclined to avoid conflict or aggression
The word "peaceful" combines "peace," derived from Latin pax (meaning "treaty, tranquility"), with the suffix "-ful," which originates from Old English -full ("full of"). The fusion reflects a state "full of peace," evolving from literal treaties to broader notions of calmness and non-violence. The suffix "-ful" systematically transforms nouns into adjectives (e.g., "joyful," "careful"), reinforcing the word's descriptive power.
The garden was a peaceful retreat from the city noise.
She advocated for peaceful resolutions to international disputes.
His peaceful demeanor made him easy to approach.
The protesters remained peaceful despite the tension.
We spent a peaceful afternoon by the lake.