deem
Americanverb (used without object)
verb (used with object)
verb
Etymology
Origin of deem
First recorded before 900; Middle English demen, Old English dēman; cognate with Gothic dōmjan, Old High German tuomen; see doom
Explanation
To deem is a verb that means to view as or judge. Your parents or boss may deem something necessary that you don't, like coming home by midnight or working late. Deem comes from the Old English word, deman — meaning "act as a judge." If you deem something, you essentially become the judge of whether it has a characteristic. For example, if you deem your little sister's jokes to be too ridiculous to listen to, you will probably just walk away.
Vocabulary lists containing deem
Vocabulary from the Introduction to "Reality is Broken" by Jane McGonigal
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The Emancipation Proclamation (1862)
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Beowulf vocabulary
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Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Here’s why he ruled against Maddin: Gorsuch looked at that statute that protects workers when they are in conditions they deem dangerous.
From Slate • May 13, 2026
This isn’t just a late-night comedy variety show, and it’s not enough to deem it a major cultural institution, either.
From Salon • Apr. 19, 2026
Big brands have suffered as consumers turn to cheaper store brands or premium goods they deem healthier.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 17, 2026
Overall, the latest analysis seems to suggest that there are significant gaps in access to AI tools and training, which many workers deem essential.
From Barron's • Apr. 14, 2026
Something tells me that wondering is not an action Journey would deem appropriate for a rover.
From "A Rover's Story" by Jasmine Warga
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
