resolute

1 of 2

adjective

res·​o·​lute ˈre-zə-ˌlüt 

-lət

1

: marked by firm determination : resolved

a resolute character

2

: bold, steady

a resolute gaze

resolutely

ˈre-zə-ˌlüt-lē 

-lət-;

ˌre-zə-ˈlüt-

adverb

resoluteness

ˈre-zə-ˌlüt-nəs 

-lət-, 

ˌre-zə-ˈlüt-

noun

resolute

2 of 2

noun

: a resolute person

Did you know?

Resolve to Define Resolute

Resolute comes from the same Latin verb as resolved, and the two words are often synonyms. So how did it get this meaning from the Latin? Essentially, when you resolve a question or problem, you come to a conclusion, and once you've reached a conclusion you can proceed to act. So in your New Year's resolutions, you resolve—or make up your mind—to do something. Unfortunately, New Year's resolutions aren't a good illustration of the meaning of resolute, since only about one in ten actually seems to succeed.

Synonyms of resolute

Adjective

• determined
• intent
• decisive
• confident
• positive
• firm

Choose the Right Synonym for resolute

faithful, loyal, constant, staunch, steadfast, resolute mean firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance.

faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

Examples of resolute in a Sentence

Adjective

She is a resolute competitor.

He has remained resolute in his opposition to the bill.

a leader with a stern and resolute manner

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

The owners’ fervent desire for a salary cap and the players being resolute in their opposition to a cap is often cited as the main point of contention between the sides. —Kevin Acee, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 Feb. 2026

His direct running and fearless approach finally gave the resolute Nottingham Forest back line something to think about. —Gregg Evans, New York Times, 23 Feb. 2026

In her subsequent interviews, Liu was resolute that her goal was never to win medals but to make the most of her opportunity to share her art on the world’s largest stage. —Sara Germano, Sportico.com, 23 Feb. 2026

The mission of the MLB Players Association remains resolute, even after the sudden resignation of its longtime leader, Tony Clark. —Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 18 Feb. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Latin resolutus, past participle of resolvere

First Known Use

Adjective

1522, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

1578, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for resolute

• absolute
• arrowroot
• attribute
• bitterroot
• constitute
• convolute
• destitute
• disrepute
• dissolute
• execute
• institute
• involute

Kids Definition

resolute

adjective

res·​o·​lute

ˈrez-ə-ˌlüt

1

: marked by firm determination

a resolute character

2

: steady entry 1

a resolute gaze

resolutely adverb

resoluteness noun