Definition of the word determination

The word "determination" has its roots in Latin. The Latin term "determinatio" is derived from "determinare," which means "to limit or finish." This Latin term is a combination of "de," meaning "from" or "forth," and "terminus," meaning "boundary" or "end." In the 15th century, the English language borrowed the Latin term "determinatio" and adapted it to English as "determination." At first, the word meant "the act of limiting or defining something." Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to incorporate the idea of firmness of purpose, decisiveness, and resoluteness. Today, determination is defined as a fixed or firm intention to do something, often requiring a lot of effort and perseverance to achieve.