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?

---

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

---

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

It is a rare bird indeed — such a big payout for so little effort.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

"We know that those species indeed can actually bite, that they do have a preference to live in and around houses rather than in natural habitats, at least in the UK and Ireland," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 13, 2026

This culture is at the heart of a competent military, and indeed is essential to the morale and cohesion that makes the American armed forces the envy of the world.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

Danny Citrinowicz, a fellow at Israel's Institute for National Security Studies, said a naval blockade would indeed expose US forces to increased risk.

From Barron's • Apr. 12, 2026

And, most wonderful of all, not indeed a whole Bible, but in four small booklets, the four Gospels.

From "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom

Related Words

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