Literally, to cut off, and thus to end. Hence,

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.

To end or determine, as a dispute or quarrel.

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

To determine; to fix the event of. The fate of the bill is decided.

In general, to end; to terminate.

To determine; to form a definite opinion; to come to a conclusion. We cannot decide how far resistance is lawful or practicable. The court decided in favor of the defendant.