peace (pēs)
n.

1. The absence of war or other hostilities.
2. An agreement or a treaty to end hostilities.
3. Freedom from quarrels and disagreement; harmonious relations: roommates living in peace with each other.
4. Public security and order: was arrested for disturbing the peace.
5. Inner contentment; serenity: peace of mind.

interj.
Used as a greeting or farewell, and as a request for silence.

idioms:

at peace

1. In a state of tranquillity; serene: She is at peace with herself and her friends.
2. Free from strife: Everyone wants to live in a world at peace.

keep (or hold) (one's) peace

1. To be silent.

keep the peace

1. To maintain or observe law and order: officers who were sworn to keep the peace.

[Middle English pes, from Old French pais, pes, from Latin pāx, pāc-. See pax.]

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The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition Copyright © 2007, 2000 by Houghton Mifflin Company. Updated in 2009. Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

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