English Reference
adjective · noun

resolute

adj. · n.
US /ˈɹɛzəˌɫut/ UK /ɹˈɛzəlˌuːt/ res·o·lute UK spelling resolutes

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Formal

    adj.having a strong will and being very sure about what you want to do.

    adj.characterized by a firm and unwavering purpose; determined in character or action.

    Simple

    She remained resolute in her decision to finish the marathon despite the rain.

    In context

    The board remained resolute in their commitment to the merger, despite mounting pressure from minority shareholders and the financial press.

    Usage

    Often followed by the preposition 'in' or a to-infinitive.

    irresolutewaveringhesitant
  2. 02 C2 Proficiency Literary

    n.a person who shows great determination and does not give up.

    n.a person who exhibits resolution or steadfastness in their actions.

    Simple

    The leader was known as a resolute who never backed down from a challenge.

    In context

    History remembers him as a resolute, a man whose iron will shaped the destiny of the nation during its darkest hours.

    Usage

    Used as a substantive noun, though much less common than the adjective form.

  3. 03 C2 Proficiency Technical Math

    n.a specific part of a vector that points in a certain direction.

    n.the projection of a vector onto an arbitrary vector or axis.

    Simple

    The student calculated the resolute of the force along the horizontal axis.

    In context

    In this coordinate system, the resolute of the velocity vector must be determined relative to the primary axis of motion.

    Usage

    Primarily used in physics and linear algebra contexts.

Marseille controlled the ball for long ​spells but struggled to create ‌shots on target, with ‌their efforts often blocked by the home side’s resolute rearguard.

The Guardian· 30 Aug 2026

He also underlined the importance of a response led by national and local authorities, equipped with the necessary resources and supported by resolute partners.

UN News· 24 Aug 2026

From Latin resolutus (“released”), past participle of resolvō (“I release, I unbind”) (re- + solvō, whence solve). Compare typologically Russian реши́тельный (rešítelʹnyj) (< реши́ть (rešítʹ)).

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Occasional
Updated