[L. To strike, to cut.] Literally, to cut off, and thus to end. Hence,

1. To end; to determine, as a controversy, by verdict of a jury, or by a judgement of court. We say, the court or the jury decided the cause in favor of the plaintiff, or of the defendant.

2. To end or determine, as a dispute or quarrel.

3. To end or determine a combat or battle; as, a body of reserve, brought to the charge, decided the contest.

4. To determine; to fix the event of.

The fate of the bill is decided.

5. In general, to end; to terminate.