single-minded

adjective

sin·​gle-mind·​ed ˌsiŋ-gəl-ˈmīn-dəd 

ˈsiŋ-gəl-ˌmīn-

: having one driving purpose or resolve : determined, dedicated

single-mindedly adverb

single-mindedness noun

Synonyms of single-minded

• resolute
• determined
• intent

Examples of single-minded in a Sentence

every successful reform movement has been spearheaded by a single-minded activist who refused to accept defeat

Recent Examples on the Web

Stubborn, single-minded and tireless, lionized and controversial, the Los Angeles water boss was 72. — Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026

In the overall sweep of history, the single-minded pursuit of short-term profits was an aberration. — Steve Denning, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

The Destroyer accelerates with the single-minded wilfulness of a homicidal maniac. — New Atlas, 13 July 2026

Mallaby, a longtime financial journalist, is a nimble storyteller, and his portrait of one of the single-minded personalities plunging the world into an uncertain future is also an engaging drama of discovery. — The New Yorker, New Yorker, 29 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1836, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for single-minded

• feebleminded
• masterminded
• blinded
• minded
• reminded

Kids Definition

single-minded

adjective

sin·​gle-mind·​ed

-ˈmīn-dəd

: having only one purpose : determined

a single-minded devotion to stopping crime

single-mindedly adverb