destiny

noun

ˈde-stə-nē How to pronounce destiny (audio)
Definition of destinynext
as in fate
a state or end that seemingly has been decided beforehand I just knew that it wasn't my destiny to end up in a dead-end job

Synonyms & Similar Words

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How is the word destiny distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of destiny are doom, fate, lot, and portion. While all these words mean "a predetermined state or end," destiny implies something foreordained and often suggests a great or noble course or end.

the country's destiny to be a model of liberty to the world

When could doom be used to replace destiny?

The synonyms doom and destiny are sometimes interchangeable, but doom distinctly implies a grim or calamitous fate.

if the rebellion fails, his doom is certain

When is it sensible to use fate instead of destiny?

While the synonyms fate and destiny are close in meaning, fate implies an inevitable and usually an adverse outcome.

the fate of the submarine is unknown

How are the words lot and portion related as synonyms of destiny?

Both lot and portion imply a distribution by fate or destiny, lot suggesting blind chance.

it was her lot to die childless

When is portion a more appropriate choice than destiny?

The words portion and destiny are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, portion implies the apportioning of good and evil.

remorse was his daily portion

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of destiny Hampton is relentlessly upbeat and Oyelowo plays him as a man who’s simply content to be caught up in God’s destiny for him, anchoring the show’s tone as generally good-natured but never emotionally compelling. —Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 15 Apr. 2025 While Bryson has always had Jamar around for advice and guidance, the elder Nesbit has seen his son take control of his destiny. —Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer, 14 Apr. 2025 If the small distance between the white dwarfs wasn't evidence enough of their doomed destiny, their combined mass certainly sealed their fate. —Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 9 Apr. 2025 King left guests with the parting wisdom to be the master of their own destiny. —Natasha Dye, People.com, 8 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for destiny
Recent Examples of Synonyms for destiny
  1. fate
Noun
  • But in a twist of fate, his estranged grandfather, the notorious outlaw Harland Rust (Baldwin), breaks him out of jail, and the two flee to Mexico.
    — Jessica Wang, EW.com, 1 May 2025
  • Perhaps his fate will be dictated by who United are able to bring in.
    — Beren Cross, New York Times, 1 May 2025
Definition of fate

Browse Nearby Words

destining
destiny
destitute
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Destiny.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/destiny. Accessed 5 May. 2025.

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