indeed

American  

[in-deed] / ɪnˈdid /

adverb

1. in fact; in reality; in truth; truly (used for emphasis, to confirm and amplify a previous statement, to indicate a concession or admission, or, interrogatively, to obtain confirmation).

   Indeed, it did rain as hard as predicted. Did you indeed finish the work?

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interjection

1. (used as an expression of surprise, incredulity, irony, etc.).

   Indeed! I can scarcely believe it.

indeed British  

/ ɪnˈdiːd /

1. certainly; actually

   indeed, it may never happen

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adverb

1. (intensifier)

   that is indeed amazing

2. or rather; what is more

   a comfortable, indeed extremely wealthy family

interjection

1. an expression of doubt, surprise, etc

Etymology

Origin of indeed

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English; originally phrase in deed

Explanation

Use the word indeed to add emphasis to a statement. Think if it as another way to say: "That's right," or "Oh, yeah." Are you seriously going to eat that entire chocolate cake? Indeed, I am. Indeed originates from the phrase in dede meaning "in fact, in truth." When you use the word indeed, you are underscoring that something is true. The word is also used when you want to introduce a point that's even truer than the last one you made. "Yes, I passed the test, and indeed, got the highest score in the class." In other words, it's a polite way to say, "Take that!"

Example Sentences

“The Listeners” arrives with some of the appointments of a horror movie—and if one were subject to a constant roar like Claire’s, one might indeed scream.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 9, 2026

And, oddly enough, in his first round as president, Donald Trump indeed seemed to have learned just such a lesson.

From Salon • Jun. 9, 2026

Its launch capabilities alone dwarf that of any other company – or indeed country on Earth.

From BBC • Jun. 8, 2026

Whether it’s the better results, or a shift in mindset, Sasaki has, indeed, seemed to carry himself with a touch more swagger lately.

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 5, 2026

And indeed, he knew she could make that choice if she wanted—for Clare had been offered the same choice by Brickbane.

From "The Undead Fox of Deadwood Forest" by Aubrey Hartman

Related Words

• absolutely
• certainly
• easily
• naturally
• really
• surely
• truly
• undeniably
• undoubtedly
• very
• very much