Definition of resolutenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word resolute distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of resolute are constant, faithful, loyal, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use constant instead of resolute?

The meanings of constant and resolute largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

Where would faithful be a reasonable alternative to resolute?

While the synonyms faithful and resolute are close in meaning, 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

When can loyal be used instead of resolute?

While in some cases nearly identical to resolute, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When could staunch be used to replace resolute?

In some situations, the words staunch and resolute are roughly equivalent. However, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When might steadfast be a better fit than resolute?

The words steadfast and resolute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resolute 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 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 team emerged from last week’s Champions League tie at Benfica with a 1-0 win after a resolute and confident performance. Guillermo Rai, New York Times, 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 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • Dengler endured endless torture and other miseries — escaping from prison was just the beginning of his ordeal in the jungle — but Bale plays him as a determined optimist, an indomitable spirit that cannot be crushed.
    Tim Grierson, Vulture, 7 Mar. 2026
  • We are both disciplined, determined and accomplished men.
    Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • In addition to making the streaming service easier to use and access, Blackburn is intent on delivering programming about tennis and its personalities that can lure in more casual fans.
    Lucas Shaw, Bloomberg, 9 Mar. 2026
  • For all their faults, looksmaxxers are intent on de-fetishizing this particular commodity, revealing beauty to be the product of strenuous (and often deranging) labor.
    Becca Rothfeld, New Yorker, 7 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Ellison faces no similar issues and has strong incentive to be decisive.
    Josef Adalian, Vulture, 5 Mar. 2026
  • Machado portrayed the episode as a decisive turning point in Venezuela’s long political crisis.
    Antonio María Delgado, Miami Herald, 5 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The surface of this balance ball has a nonslip coating to provide a confident grip.
    BestReviews, Mercury News, 5 Mar. 2026
  • Senior forward Lucas Johnson stayed confident.
    Patrick Z. McGavin, Chicago Tribune, 5 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • The Heat again played Adebayo and Ware together and the results were again positive.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 6 Mar. 2026
  • There is one bit of positive news — despite the high prices, most analysts don’t see any fuel shortages on the horizon.
    Rob Nikolewski, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • For a firm texture, press the block between paper towels using a heavy weight, such as a sheet pan topped with a can of tomatoes, for 15 to 30 minutes before cooking.
    Kate Williams, AJC.com, 10 Mar. 2026
  • That kind of demand certainty can help anchor investment in firm, clean capacity.
    John Kerry, semafor.com, 10 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 12 Mar. 2026.

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