determined

[dih-tur-mind]

adjective

1. resolute; staunch.

   the determined defenders of the Alamo.

   Synonyms: unfaltering, inflexible

2. decided; settled; resolved.

3. Grammar.,  (of a phonetic feature) predictable from its surrounding context.

determined

/ dɪˈtɜːmɪnd /

adjective

1. of unwavering mind; resolute; firm

Other Word Forms

• determinedly adverb
• determinedness noun
• postdetermined adjective
• undetermined adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of determined¹

First recorded in 1490–1500; determine + -ed ²

Example Sentences

"One of the defining elements of this government for me is about what we can do to ensure that children's chances in life aren't determined by the size of their parents' bank balance," she added.

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Loggerhead turtles are equipped with two different abilities for sensing the Earth's magnetic field, yet scientists had not determined which one they rely on to interpret the magnetic map they inherit at birth.

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Investors have been bidding up the price of Treasury bonds this year, slashing the yield, as their confidence has grown that the Federal Reserve is determined to squeeze inflation out of the system.

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The researchers determined that this metallic copper helps add hydrogen to nitrite ions, which leads to ammonia formation.

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Sarwar told delegates he was determined to deliver "big, bold and meaningful change" if his party wins next May's Holyrood election.

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Related Words

• decisive 
• dogged 
• purposeful 
• resolute 
• resolved 
• serious 
• single-minded 
• steadfast 
• strong-willed 
• stubborn 
• tenacious 

When To Use

What does determined mean?

Determined means firmly set in one’s decision or course of action, especially with the aim of achieving a particular goal.Someone who’s determined to do something is extremely motivated and unlikely to quit or change their mind. Someone who’s determined in general has a very strong desire to achieve their goals.Someone who’s determined in this way is said to be showing determination—the quality of being firm in one’s purpose.Determined is also the past tense form of the verb determine, meaning to decide or settle in an authoritative way or conclude after observation. The term undetermined uses this sense of the word. Something that’s undetermined has not been conclusively decided or settled. (It’s not used to describe someone who’s not particularly motivated.)Example: I am absolutely determined to finish this race, even if I have to crawl across the finish line.