resolute

[rez-uh-loot]

adjective

1. firmly resolved or determined; set in purpose or opinion.

   Her parents wanted her to marry, but she was focused on her education and remained resolute.

   Synonyms: fixed, steadfast, firm

2. characterized by firmness and determination, as the temper, spirit, actions, etc..

   The mayor was asked to take resolute action against the looters.

   Synonyms: undaunted

resolute

/ ˈrɛzəˌluːt /

adjective

1. firm in purpose or belief; steadfast

2. characterized by resolution; determined

   a resolute answer

Other Word Forms

• resolutely adverb
• resoluteness noun
• overresolute adjective
• overresoluteness noun
• semiresolute adjective
• semiresoluteness noun
• unresolute adjective
• unresoluteness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of resolute¹

First recorded in 1375–1425 for earlier sense “dissolved”; 1525–35 for current senses; late Middle English, from Latin resolūtus, past participle of the verb resolvere resolve

Word History and Origins

Origin of resolute¹

C16: from Latin resolutus , from resolvere to _resolve

Synonym Study

See earnest ¹.

Example Sentences

While she posed a greater threat this time around, the same opponent proved too resolute in the crucial moments.

From BBC

Burnley will be stubborn and resolute, and they do carry an attacking threat.

From BBC

When I spoke with her over the weekend, her tone was measured, emphatic and resolute.

From Salon

Earlier this week, North Korea warned of "resolute counteraction" to provocations ahead of joint military drills between South Korea and the US.

From BBC

Ms Kim is resolute in her defence of her brother, repeatedly emphasising that "he was a man of integrity".

From BBC

Related Words

• adamant 
• bold 
• courageous 
• obstinate 
• persistent 
• relentless 
• serious 
• staunch 
• steadfast 
• strong 
• stubborn 
• tenacious 
• uncompromising 
• unflinching 
• unshakable 
• unwavering 
• unyielding