determined

adjective

de·​ter·​mined di-ˈtər-mənd 

dē-

1

: having reached a decision : firmly resolved

was determined to become a pilot

is determined not to let it happen again

2

a

: showing determination

a determined effort

b

: characterized by determination

… will deter all but the most determined thief.

—Security World

determinedly

di-ˈtər-mənd-lē 

-mə-nəd-lē

dē-

adverb

determinedness

di-ˈtər-mənd-nəs 

dē-

noun

Synonyms

• bent (on or upon)
• bound
• decisive
• do-or-die
• firm
• hell-bent (on or upon)
• intent
• out
• purposeful
• resolute
• resolved
• set
• single-minded

Examples of determined in a Sentence

We are making a determined effort to correct our mistakes.

his determined opponent would not be bluffed or shaken

Recent Examples on the Web

Riley is an extremely creative, hardworking and determined student. —Caroline Beck, The Indianapolis Star, 9 Dec. 2024

Mia seems determined to rope as many people into her chaos as much as possible, consequences be damned. —Shamira Ibrahim, Vulture, 9 Dec. 2024

Eventually, the two couples' respective kids — Hank and Leah — grow up, get married and welcome Alana, who is determined to carry on their Chiefs-loving legacy. —Erin Clack, People.com, 8 Dec. 2024

The Mets have been linked to all of them, with hedge-fund billionaire Steve Cohen widely considered the wealthiest owner in the game – and one of the most determined to win. —Dan Schlossberg, Forbes, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

Etymology

see determine

First Known Use

circa 1616, in the meaning defined at sense 2a

Phrases Containing determined

• bound and determined
• self-determined

Kids Definition

determined

adjective

de·​ter·​mined di-ˈtər-mənd 

1

: having reached a decision : firmly resolved

determined to be a pilot

2

: not weak or uncertain

a very determined opponent

determinedly

-mən-dlē 

-mə-nəd-lē

adverb