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 For someone who works in an industry that is constantly in flux, Zurich Film Festival Co-Owner and Festival Director Reta Guetg is resolute in her ambition for the young film event. — Diana Lodderhose, Deadline, 25 Sep. 2026 There are many reasons to love this story, not least because of its resolute universalism. — Literary Hub, 18 Sep. 2026 But by the time officials reach the Premier League, most are resilient and resolute enough to set aside what has gone before and referee what is put in front of them. — Graham Scott, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026 Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s ongoing satirical series at first appalled many viewers with its resolute political incorrectness and penchant for four-letter words from the mouths of babes, and that was nowhere more evident than in Cartman himself. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 10 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for resolute
Recent Examples of Synonyms for resolute
Adjective
  • For all her appreciation of history, Chiuri is determined to look forward.
    — Ryma Chikhoune, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2026
  • But those guardrails wouldn’t stop a determined hacker from messing with your kids.
    — Sean Hollister, The Verge, 15 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Swayze died in 2009 of pancreatic cancer and Jacobson is intent on honoring the late star’s legacy with the sequel.
    — J. Kim Murphy, IndieWire, 17 Oct. 2026
  • Since 2021 the company has also been intent on strengthening its distribution channels and showrooms across Asia, Europe and North America.
    — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 15 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • If Bass’ vow to rule the same as before represents a decisive leader, more and more Angelenos seem to be saying, give us the Raman flood.
    — Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 14 Oct. 2026
  • By afternoon, the Moon trines Mars and your mind gets sharper and more decisive.
    — Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 14 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • But that concern has been addressed here thanks to the aforementioned brake upgrades, which deliver confident stopping power at speed as well as excellent pedal feel.
    — Bradley Iger, Robb Report, 16 Oct. 2026
  • Jim is confident Kimberly-Clark can unlock value from the Tylenol maker, which was spun off from healthcare giant and Club name Johnson & Johnson in 2023 and struggled to find its footing as a standalone entity.
    — Natasha Abellard, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • At the same time, more than nine in 10 Americans say the federal government has the power to make a positive impact on society — suggesting many believe the current administration is not making use of that power.
    — Morgan Chalfant, semafor.com, 21 Oct. 2026
  • Just 39% of Americans say AI has a positive impact on society, compared with 44% who believe its impact is negative, according to a national survey conducted this month by my company, Outward Intelligence.
    — Will Johnson, Time, 21 Oct. 2026
Adjective
  • Beyond that, there's no firm timeline for when the system might be ready for widespread deployment.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 18 Oct. 2026
  • Gee refused to budge, saying the 10-year ban was firm and accusing the national organizations of encouraging the break.
    — Brittany Shammas, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Resolute.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/resolute. Accessed 22 Oct. 2026.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster