be·calm \bə̇, bē+\transitive verb (-ed/-ing/-s) Etymology:be- + calm, adjective or verb 1. a.: to keep from motion or stop the progress of by lack of wind < the fleet was becalmed > b.: to bring about a cessation of the work, progress, or activity of < a becalmed movie industry would not keep up their standard of living — Martin Kasindorf > 2.: to make calm : soothe, tranquilize < becalm an agitated mind >