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

Just about anyone would struggle to contain Mohamed Salah and his strike-partners while in a determined mood. —Sam Tighe, The Athletic, 14 Feb. 2025

An upbeat and determined person by nature, Ms. Donlon bristled at her sister’s disheartened words. —Christopher Maag, New York Times, 14 Feb. 2025

The problem is that determined professionals can still jump these hurdles. —Whizy Kim, Vox, 12 Feb. 2025

Investigators have not yet determined whether shortages played a role in the incident. —Alex Fitzpatrick, Axios, 11 Feb. 2025

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