Synonyms: collected, equanimous, self-collected, self-contained, self-possessed, poised
Definition: in full control of your faculties
Usage: the witness remained collected throughout the cross-examination; perfectly poised and sure of himself; more self-contained and more dependable than many of the early frontiersmen; strong and self-possessed in the face of trouble
Similar words: composed
Definition: serenely self-possessed and free from agitation especially in times of stress
Usage: the performer seemed completely composed as she stepped onto the stage; I felt calm and more composed than I had in a long time
Synonyms: poised
Definition: marked by balance or equilibrium and readiness for action
Usage: a gull in poised flight; George's poised hammer
Similar words: balanced
Definition: being in a state of proper equilibrium
Usage: the carefully balanced seesaw; a properly balanced symphony orchestra; a balanced assessment of intellectual and cultural history; a balanced blend of whiskeys; the educated man shows a balanced development of all his powers