What does "destined" mean?

1. (certain to happen) certain to happen or to do something because of fate or a strong plan. 2. (travelling to a place) travelling toward a specific destination. 3. (to intend for a purpose) to intend or set something aside for a specific purpose or person.

How do you use "destined"?

Usually follows the verb 'to be' and is followed by 'to' and an infinitive. Almost always followed by the preposition 'for'. Commonly appears in the passive voice as 'be destined'.

destined

adj. · v.

US //ˈdɛstɪnd// UK //dˈɛstɪnd// des·tined

1 certain to happen (adj.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

certain to happen or to do something because of fate or a strong plan.

predetermined by fate, providence, or a specific plan; often used with a following infinitive to indicate an inevitable future action.

Example

From a young age, it was clear that she was destined to become a great musician.

Example

The small startup seemed destined for failure until a sudden shift in market trends made their product essential overnight.

Usage

Usually follows the verb 'to be' and is followed by 'to' and an infinitive.
- avoidable
- uncertain
2 travelling to a place (adj.)
C1 Advanced Formal

travelling toward a specific destination.

intended for or travelling toward a particular destination; typically used in the construction 'destined for'.

Example

The ship was destined for the port of Rotterdam but had to stop for repairs.

Example

Customs officials intercepted a large shipment of electronics destined for the black market in several neighbouring countries.

Usage

Almost always followed by the preposition 'for'.
- bound
- headed

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3 to intend for a purpose (v.)
C2 Proficiency Literary Formal

to intend or set something aside for a specific purpose or person.

to appoint or ordain for a specific purpose or end. This transitive use is most common in the passive voice.

Example

The money was destined for the new hospital wing before the budget cuts.

Example

The king had destined his eldest daughter for the throne, despite the traditional laws of succession that favoured her younger brother.

Usage

Commonly appears in the passive voice as 'be destined'.