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

• resolute
• intent
• decisive
• resolved
• confident
• bound

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

Geralt and Yennefer are determined to stop Emperor Emhyr var Emreis (Bart Edwards) from fulfilling an ancient prophecy — which involves marrying his own daughter, Ciri — and gaining enough power to rule the entire Continent. —Jordan Moreau, Variety, 31 Oct. 2025

Stuckmann was equally determined to make his first movie. —Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 31 Oct. 2025

Let’s hope the Hornets are determined to get better, too, in these next two home games against Minnesota and Utah. —Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 31 Oct. 2025

Fringilla escapes her captors, weaker but no less determined, and rescues Istredd from his cell. —Scott Meslow, Vulture, 30 Oct. 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

Rhymes for determined

• predetermined
• redetermined
• undetermined
• overdetermined
• termined

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