The phrase "at peace" is spelled according to the standard English orthography. The "a" in "at" is pronounced as /æ/, which is the "short a" sound. "Peace" is spelled with the letter "e" to represent the "long e" sound /iː/. The "c" in "peace" is pronounced as /s/, with the "e" at the end being silent. Overall, the phrase is pronounced as /æt piːs/. It means to be in a state of tranquility or free from conflict.
At peace refers to a state of tranquility, calmness, and absence of conflict or tension. It is a term often used to describe the state of mind or emotional state of an individual or a collective entity. Being at peace implies a sense of inner harmony and contentment, accompanied by a lack of disturbance or unease.
When a person is at peace, they experience a deep sense of serenity and well-being, free from worry, stress, or anxiety. It suggests a state of internal equilibrium where one finds solace and equanimity amidst daily challenges and adversities. This state of mind allows individuals to be open to experiencing happiness, joy, and gratitude while maintaining emotional stability and mental clarity.
In a broader context, being at peace also involves harmonious relationships with others and a tranquil environment. It signifies the absence of conflicts, aggression, and hostilities. Whether on a personal or societal level, being at peace implies collective harmony, unity, and a shared commitment to live in mutual respect and understanding.
Achieving inner peace and fostering peaceful coexistence requires intentional efforts such as self-reflection, meditation, forgiveness, and empathy. Striving for peace is not only beneficial to individuals but also has far-reaching implications for the world, promoting cooperation, justice, and sustainable development. Being at peace is an aspirational state that involves cultivating a peaceful mindset and embracing values of harmony and compassion.
The phrase "at peace" is a combination of two words, each with their individual etymology:
1. At: - The word "at" is a preposition that has its roots in Old English and Old Norse. - In Old English, it was spelled as "æt" and meant "near, by, or at". - It has also evolved from the Old Norse word "at" meaning "at, to, or toward". - Over time, "at" has retained a similar meaning of denoting a location or position.
2. Peace: - The word "peace" comes from the Latin word "pax". - In Latin, "pax" means "peace, tranquility, or a state of harmony". - It is believed to have originally come from the Proto-Indo-European root "pak-", which means "to fasten, tie, or make peace".