collected

1 of 2

adjective

col·​lect·​ed kə-ˈlek-təd How to pronounce collected (audio)
Synonyms of collectednext
1
: gathered together
the collected works of Scott
2
: possessed of calmness and composure often through concentrated effort
3
of a horse's gait : performed slowly and restrainedly with the animal's center of gravity toward the hindquarters compare extended entry 1
collectedly adverb
collectedness noun

collected

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of collect entry 2

Synonyms of collected

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Adjective

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Choose the Right Synonym for collected

cool, composed, collected, unruffled, imperturbable, nonchalant mean free from agitation or excitement.

cool may imply calmness, deliberateness, or dispassionateness.

kept a cool head

composed implies freedom from agitation as a result of self-discipline or a sedate disposition.

the composed pianist gave a flawless concert

collected implies a concentration of mind that eliminates distractions especially in moments of crisis.

the nurse stayed calm and collected

unruffled suggests apparent serenity and poise in the face of setbacks or in the midst of excitement.

harried but unruffled

imperturbable implies coolness or assurance even under severe provocation.

the speaker remained imperturbable despite the heckling

nonchalant stresses an easy coolness of manner or casualness that suggests indifference or unconcern.

a nonchalant driver

Examples of collected in a Sentence

Adjective the collected works of Shakespeare She seemed completely cool, calm, and collected during her speech.
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Adjective
Data brokers legally comb the internet for such information, build profiles using the collected information, and sell those profiles to anyone who’ll pay. — Neil J. Rubenking, PC Magazine, 10 Aug. 2026 Paired with the Emme play table, this duo creates the kind of collected look that feels professionally layered. — Vy Yang, Architectural Digest, 31 July 2026 For several years, large majorities of Americans have reported being concerned about how companies use their data, while also having minimal understanding of how collected data is actually used. — David Henkin, Forbes.com, 20 July 2026 The collected luggage includes roller bags, duffel bags, suitcases and backpacks. — Evy Lewis, Chicago Tribune, 19 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for collected

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

from past participle of collect entry 2

First Known Use

Adjective

1567, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of collected was in 1567

Phrases Containing collected

Rhymes for collected

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Browse Nearby Words

collectarium
collected
collected edition
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Cite this Entry

“Collected.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/collected. Accessed 1 Sep. 2026.

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Kids Definition

collected

adjective
col·​lect·​ed kə-ˈlek-təd How to pronounce collected (audio)
: being calm and in control of oneself
collectedly adverb
collectedness noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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