Definition of resolutenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word resolute distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of resolute are constant, faithful, loyal, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use constant instead of resolute?

The meanings of constant and resolute largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

Where would faithful be a reasonable alternative to resolute?

While the synonyms faithful and resolute are close in meaning, 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

When can loyal be used instead of resolute?

While in some cases nearly identical to resolute, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When could staunch be used to replace resolute?

In some situations, the words staunch and resolute are roughly equivalent. However, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When might steadfast be a better fit than resolute?

The words steadfast and resolute are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of resolute The final communiqué was resolute, with defense budgets of NATO members finally rising and continued, generous humanitarian support for Ukraine celebrated with warm, shared applause. Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Time, 16 July 2026 England’s fierce attacks in the second half were thwarted by a resolute American defense and a series of saves by goalkeeper Frank Borghi. Tushaar Kuthiala, Encyclopedia Britannica, 22 June 2026 Spielberg has been resolute in his beliefs since before Disclosure Day entered production. Wesley Stenzel, Entertainment Weekly, 10 June 2026 Manilow is resolute about getting back on stage. Melissa Ruggieri, USA Today, 2 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • Sandro Tonali and Adam Wharton were considered as options alongside Anderson and Bouaddi, but Fernandez was the player City were most determined to sign.
    Tim Spiers, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026
  • The kitchen is located in the new addition of the house, and Keys was determined to inject it with charm.
    Rachel Wallace, Architectural Digest, 1 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • His appointment is seen as a sign that the leadership is intent on preventing any new unrest as discontent over the economy spreads.
    Lee Keath, Fortune, 29 Aug. 2026
  • During this time Turner became intent on pursuing an acting career and began frequently auditioning.
    L. Sue Baugh, Encyclopedia Britannica, 28 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Carney was also buoyed by Monday’s Liberal sweep of three special elections, including a decisive win in Chicoutimi-Le Fjord in Quebec, where the Conservatives fell to third place.
    Rob Gillies, Los Angeles Times, 1 Sep. 2026
  • Carney was also buoyed by Monday's Liberal sweep of three special elections, including a decisive win in Chicoutimi-Le Fjord, Quebec, where the Conservatives fell to third place.
    ABC News, ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Other than that, he’s never seemed confident that the future will turn out all right, although he’s kept on working out his worries onscreen, forever hunting for flakes of hope in the rubble.
    Amy Nicholson, Los Angeles Times, 28 Aug. 2026
  • Coyote first hoodwinks and then forces Kevin into his lawsuit plans, taking Acme to task in a way the corporation, confident in its imperviousness, finds laughable.
    Angelica Jade Bastién, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Though Rosado tested positive for a small amount of meth and had been going up to 90 mph, the evidence indicated that Rosado had fallen asleep and that his car drifted off the freeway before hitting a guardrail, Cherney said.
    Amanda Lee Myers, USA Today, 4 Sep. 2026
  • His remarks later shifted toward perseverance and remaining positive through difficult circumstances.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 3 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The increasing chances of being taken, whether one is in a church, mosque, school, on a trip to the capital Abuja or resting at home, is a grim reality that should not be the case given Tinubu’s firm campaign pledges.
    Alexander Onukwue, semafor.com, 31 Aug. 2026
  • It’s made with Alaria seaweed to improve skin’s elasticity and give it a firmer look, while a blend of natural oils leaves the skin feeling smooth as a siren song.
    Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 5 Sep. 2026.

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