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

Wilson described Solari as independent, determined and deeply committed to her animals. — Madisen Keavy, CBS News, 7 Aug. 2026

In an era when automakers seem determined to replace every knob and switch with a touchscreen command, even small dedicated controls deserve recognition. — Karl Brauer, Forbes.com, 4 Aug. 2026

It was quickly determined that Taele was being investigated for robbery by the El Segundo Police Department, resulting in deputies detaining him and found a 16-round magazine in his pants pocket, according to police. — Noe Padilla, USA Today, 4 Aug. 2026

The lawsuit alleges Aubrey never threatened officers with what was later determined to be a replica handgun before turning and running away. — Ben Wheeler, Kansas City Star, 4 Aug. 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