Resolute comes from the same Latin verb as resolved, and the two words are often synonyms. So how did it get this meaning from the Latin? Essentially, when you resolve a question or problem, you come to a conclusion, and once you've reached a conclusion you can proceed to act. So in your New Year's resolutions, you resolve—or make up your mind—to do something. Unfortunately, New Year's resolutions aren't a good illustration of the meaning of resolute, since only about one in ten actually seems to succeed.
faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.
faithful to her promise
loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.
remained loyal to the czar
constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.
constant friends
staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.
a staunch defender of free speech
steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.
steadfast in their support
resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.
a resolute ally
Examples of resolute in a Sentence
Adjective
She is a resolute competitor.
He has remained resolute in his opposition to the bill.
a leader with a stern and resolute manner
Recent Examples on the Web
Adjective
There is sorrow on the first woman’s resolute face at the start, with tears gently trickling down her cheeks.—Tomris Laffly, Variety, 2 Sep. 2024 In all three of these representations, the president is usually the same: a strong, resolute, caring family man.—Peter Kastor, The Conversation, 13 Aug. 2024 Clear cut chances were few and far between, however, as France struggled to break down a resolute Spanish defence.—Matias Grez, CNN, 9 July 2024 Andrew and Washington had multiple conversations with Mack to try to dissuade him from moving with the children, but Mack was resolute.—Cheyenne Roundtree, Rolling Stone, 16 Aug. 2024 See all Example Sentences for resolute
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'resolute.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
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