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Definition of decide

decide

/dɪˈsaɪd/
de · cide
Adverb:decisively
•
Adjective:decisive
•
Past Simple:decided
•
Past Participle:decided
•
Present Participle:deciding
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decide Lexical Profile

decide Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To come to a resolution in the mind as a result of consideration; to make a choice from among several alternatives.

Example

"She took several weeks to decide which university offer to accept."

2

To settle a contest, dispute, or legal question by giving a victory or formal judgment to one side.

Example

"The Supreme Court will decide the constitutional case later this term."

3

To serve as the crucial factor that determines the outcome of something or causes a person to reach a resolution.

Example

"A sudden change in weather could decide the outcome of the championship race."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for decide

• Nearby Words

decertification
decertify
decibel
decide
decided
decidedly
decider

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed from Old French decider, from Latin decidere, meaning literally 'to cut off,' formed from de- ('off') and caedere ('to cut'), reflecting the idea of settling a matter at a single stroke.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decide. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decide
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