predestination Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun previous determination as if by destiny or fate
  2. noun (theology) being determined in advance; especially the doctrine (usually associated with Calvin) that God has foreordained every event throughout eternity (including the final salvation of mankind)
    predetermination; foreordination; preordination.

WordNet

Pre*des`ti*na"tion noun
Etymology
L. praedestinatio: cf. F. prédestination.
Definitions
  1. The act of predestinating.
    Predestination had overruled their will. Milton.
  2. (Theol.) The purpose of Good from eternity respecting all events; especially, the preordination of men to everlasting happiness or misery. See Calvinism.

Webster 1913