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

But his critique of the pontiff suggests that it was not — that he does indeed think he would be better at the job of than Leo.

From Salon • Apr. 15, 2026

Yet there are still many unanswered questions about whether talks will indeed happen and what a possible truce might look like, with both sides seeking vastly different demands.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 15, 2026

"This meeting is essential because you are required to provide evidence to the Home Office demonstrating that, if you are gay, you are indeed affiliated with a gay organisation," she told him.

From BBC • Apr. 15, 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

It was hardly foolproof; indeed, it was almost certain to fail more often than it succeeded.

From "The Big Short" by Michael Lewis

Related Words

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