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
Example Sentences
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
But Thorne is a resolute quarterback who has shown an ability to overcome adversity. Carlos Monarrez, Detroit Free Press, 16 Sep. 2022 And its interior comfort is surprising for a vehicle with such a resolute outdoors attitude. Tribune News Service, cleveland, 10 Sep. 2022 The movement had prided itself on its resolute secularism, but longtermist dread recalled the verse in the Book of Revelation that warns of a time when the stars will fall from the sky like unripe figs. Gideon Lewis-kraus, The New Yorker, 8 Aug. 2022 The West’s response to Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine has been resolute, unified and consequential. Ludovic Hood, WSJ, 13 Mar. 2022 Even the most resolute penny-pinchers can be lured, despite the channels' obvious sales pitches. Jeva Lange, The Week, 3 Nov. 2021 The conversations were uncomfortable, but Gabriella was resolute.Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2022 Maxwell’s abuse were why Maxwell’s multiple convictions for trafficking and conspiracy, and her sentencing, were so resolute. Guy Martin, Forbes, 30 June 2022 All-Star will continue to be resolute in his stance. Jeremy Cluff, The Arizona Republic, 9 Aug. 2022
Noun
There was no hysteria to this Brahms, just resolute intensity.New York Times, 19 Aug. 2022 Despite peace-seeking efforts to ease the conflict, both Rwanda and Congo seem resolute in blaming the other for fomenting violence — with little ground for compromise.Los Angeles Times, 16 Aug. 2022 So the administration's clairvoyance and the handling of the war - resolute but controlled and measured, strengthened its reputation and the trust in US leadership.CBS News, 29 June 2022 In the ongoing return to office debate, Salesforce co-CEO Marc Benioff is standing resolute on remote work. Jane Thier, Fortune, 23 June 2022 But the president, resolute in defense of global democracy, has been slower to respond to changes tearing at the democratic fabric of his own country, some say. Eli Stokolsstaff Writer, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2022 Employers and co-workers can prevent future erosion of the basic human rights everyone deserves by being more resolute in their support and actions. Rebecca Henderson, Forbes, 24 June 2022 Something about that squirrel’s posture — calm, resolute — reminded Michele of a politician.Washington Post, 13 Apr. 2022 Obituary: The actor’s portrayal of resolute heroes helped open the door for Black actors in the film industry.New York Times, 31 Mar. 2022 See More