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 of determined

• 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

Placide, who has announced this will be his final international tournament, seemed determined to end his career on a high note. — Jacqueline Charles, Miami Herald, 25 June 2026

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos told Fox News Digital that investigators and the FBI have examined numerous ransom communications throughout the case, with some determined to be fraudulent and others considered potentially credible. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 24 June 2026

On the contrary, as a Cardinal sign, the crab is proactive, protective and incredibly determined. — Valerie Mesa, PEOPLE, 24 June 2026

Both the states and Live Nation await a decision from the court on what remedies are determined to be necessary on the matter. — Ethan Millman, HollywoodReporter, 24 June 2026

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