Phrase guide

dead set

adj · noun · 6 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

adj

Meaning 1

Unswervingly dedicated; resolutely determined.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • If John is dead set on marrying Catherine, his parents' objection will only provoke a falling out.
  • The governor is dead set against the concealed weapons permit legislation and will veto it even if it costs her the re-election.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: hell-bent

Antonyms: none provided

2

adj

Meaning 2

Complete and utter; total.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: Australia, colloquial

Examples

  • He is a dead set fool.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

3

noun

Meaning 3

The rigid pose a hunting dog assumes when pointing out game to a hunter.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Topics: hobbies, hunting, lifestyle

Examples

  • The judge at the dog show took points off the Irish setter's dead set because its right ear twitched a few times.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

4

noun

Meaning 4

A fixed or stationary condition arising from obstacle or hindrance; a deadlock.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Examples

  • to be at a dead set

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

5

noun

Meaning 5

A determined effort.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: broadly, figuratively

Examples

  • I might not graduate first in my class, but I'll make a dead set at it.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

6

noun

Meaning 6

A pointed and persistent attack on a person.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.