loyalty

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noun loy·al·ty \ˈlȯi(-ə)l-tē\

Simple Definition of loyalty

: the quality or state of being loyal
: a loyal feeling : a feeling of strong support for someone or something

Source: Merriam-Webster's Learner's Dictionary

Full Definition of loyalty

plural

loyalties

: the quality or state or an instance of being loyal

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Examples of loyalty in a sentence

the loyalty of the team's fans
<there was no denying that dog's loyalty to his master>

Origin and Etymology of loyalty

alteration of Middle English leawte, lewte, from Anglo-French lealté, leauté, from leal, leial loyal

First Known Use: 15th century

Synonym Discussion of loyalty

fidelity, allegiance, fealty, loyalty, devotion, piety mean faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty. fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty <marital fidelity>. allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country <pledging allegiance>. fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow <fealty to the truth>. loyalty implies a faithfulness that is steadfast in the face of any temptation to renounce, desert, or betray <valued the loyalty of his friends>. devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication <a painter's devotion to her art>. piety stresses fidelity to obligations regarded as natural and fundamental <filial piety>.