fate
fayt
Fate (noun) means the power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something. Example: “It seemed like fate that they met again after all those years.”
noun
1
The power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something.
"It seemed like fate that they met again after all those years."
"The jury would decide the fate of the accused."
"Nobody knew what fate awaited the old building once the council sold it."
verb
1
To determine or decide something in advance, as if by destiny.
"The two were fated to meet, or so the story goes."
"He was fated to become a teacher, just like his mother."
"The ship seemed fated to sink before it ever left the harbour."
How to use fate
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe idea of destiny — an outcome that feels predetermined and beyond anyone's control.
Common pairings
seal someone's fate
a cruel twist of fate
tempt fate
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Word forms
- Third person singular
- fates
- Past tense
- fated
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It seemed like _____ that they met again after all those years.
Etymology
From Latin fatum, "that which has been spoken" — originally a prophecy or divine decree.
Synonyms
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Rhymes for fate
See all rhymes for fate →Frequently asked questions
What does “fate” mean?
The word “fate” means the power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something. In plain terms, the idea of destiny — an outcome that feels predetermined and beyond anyone's control.
How do you pronounce “fate”?
“Fate” is pronounced fayt (/feɪt/ in IPA).
How do you use “fate” in a sentence?
Here is “fate” used in a sentence: “It seemed like fate that they met again after all those years.”
What part of speech is “fate”?
Depending on how it is used, “fate” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “fate” come from?
The word “fate” comes from Latin. From Latin fatum, "that which has been spoken" — originally a prophecy or divine decree.
Is “fate” a common word?
“Fate” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “fate” have?
“Fate” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the power thought to control everything that happens, seen as unavoidable; also, the eventual outcome awaiting someone or something.
What is the difference between fate and destiny?
Both refer to a power thought to shape what happens, but "fate" is often neutral or negative and stresses that the outcome is unavoidable, as in "left to their fate." "Destiny" usually carries a more positive or purposeful tone, suggesting what someone is meant to become.
What is the difference between fate and faith?
They sound similar but are unrelated in meaning. "Fate" is the power believed to control events, or the eventual outcome awaiting someone; "faith" is strong trust or belief, especially religious belief. You accept your fate, but you have faith in something.
Can fate be used as a verb?
Yes, though almost always in the passive form "be fated," meaning determined in advance as if by destiny. Something "fated to happen" is presented as unavoidable, as in "they were fated to meet."
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