deem
Deem (verb) means to regard or judge something as being a certain way, based on one's opinion or assessment. Example: “The committee deemed the proposal unworkable.”
How to use deem
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo formally consider or judge something to be a certain way.
Fairly formal — common in legal, official, or written contexts rather than casual speech.
Word forms
deemed past tense, deem plural, deemed plural, deems plural, Deems plural, deems singular, deem singular, deemed singular, deemest singular, deemedst singular, deemeth singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The committee _____ the proposal unworkable.
Etymology
From Old English dēman ("to judge, decide"), related to the word "doom."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for deem
See all rhymes for deem →Frequently asked questions
What does “deem” mean?
The word “deem” means to regard or judge something as being a certain way, based on one's opinion or assessment. In plain terms, to formally consider or judge something to be a certain way.
How do you pronounce “deem”?
“Deem” is pronounced deem (/dim/ in IPA).
How do you use “deem” in a sentence?
Here is “deem” used in a sentence: “The committee deemed the proposal unworkable.”
What is another word for “deem”?
Words with a similar meaning to “deem” include account, appraise, count, esteem, see and censure.
What part of speech is “deem”?
“Deem” is a verb.
Where does the word “deem” come from?
The word “deem” comes from Old English. From Old English dēman ("to judge, decide"), related to the word "doom.".
Is “deem” a common word?
“Deem” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
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