surer; surest
1
not used before a noun
: not having any doubt about something : convinced or certain
I am sure (that) everything will be fine.
We are quite/completely sure (that) we will be finished on time.
She's not sure who will be there.
Are you sure you want to go?
Are you sure about that?
She'll be there, I'm sure of it.
Are you sure of the results?
2
: not allowing any doubt or possibility of failure
The return of the robins is a sure sign of spring.
The letter is a sure indication that she cares.
Pizza is a sure crowd pleaser.
The surest way to lose weight is with diet and exercise.
One sure way to improve your health is to stop smoking.
He's a sure bet to receive the award. [=he's sure/certain to receive the award]
It's a sure thing that they'll win. [=it is certain that they'll win]
Flowers and chocolates are always sure things [=people always like to be given flowers and chocolates], but consider giving your wife something different this year.
3
—used to say that something will definitely happen or that someone will definitely do something —usually followed by to + verb
It's sure to be a great party.
I'll be sure to call when I get home.
They are sure to win.
Her latest movie is sure to make you laugh.
Whatever you say, he's sure to disagree with you.
4
: known to be true or correct
What is sure [=definite, indisputable] is that they have a problem, and we have the means to fix it.
Nothing else is sure.
One thing is (for) sure, we'll never eat there again. [=we certainly will never eat there again]
5
a
: firm or solid
a sure hold/grip
a hiking boot that provides sure footing [=that helps to keep your foot from slipping]
—often used figurativelyHe lacks a sure grasp of the issue. [=he does not understand the issue well]
She has a sure command of the French language.
b
: calm, steady, and confident
the sure hands of a surgeon
informal
1
a
—used to say "yes" or to agree to a request or suggestion
"Can you help me with this?" "Sure." [=certainly]
b
—used to disagree with a negative statement or suggestion
"I don't think he's coming." "Sure he is. He's just a little late."
"Don't you like popcorn?" "Sure I like popcorn. I just don't want any right now."
2
—used to emphasize that you agree with the first part of the statement that you are about to make
Sure, she's very talented, but other factors could limit her success.
3
US
—used as an informal way to accept someone's thanks
"Thank you for your help." "Sure." [=you're welcome]
4
US
—used for emphasis
I sure am tired.
This sure beats working.
"Do you want to come?" "I sure do!"
(impolite) I sure as hell hope you know what you're doing!
Cite this Entry
“Sure.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/sure. Accessed 15 Apr. 2026.
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