Definition of allegiancenext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word allegiance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of allegiance are devotion, fealty, fidelity, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When might devotion be a better fit than allegiance?

While the synonyms devotion and allegiance are close in meaning, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When would fealty be a good substitute for allegiance?

Although the words fealty and allegiance have much in common, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When could fidelity be used to replace allegiance?

The words fidelity and allegiance can be used in similar contexts, but fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

In what contexts can loyalty take the place of allegiance?

The words loyalty and allegiance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, loyalty implies a faithfulness that is steadfast in the face of any temptation to renounce, desert, or betray.

valued the loyalty of his friends

When can piety be used instead of allegiance?

The meanings of piety and allegiance largely overlap; however, piety stresses fidelity to obligations regarded as natural and fundamental.

filial piety

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 allegiance Amazon is wagering that a half-price membership can manufacture loyalty among a cohort that has more financial anxiety than any before it, and less brand allegiance to show for it. Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 24 June 2026 Despite his criticism of fellow Democrats, Fetterman maintained his allegiance to the Democratic Party. Max Grinstein, The Washington Examiner, 24 June 2026 Granted, as an Atlanta child, my allegiance used to be to Georgia Tech. Jason Kirk, New York Times, 23 June 2026 De la Espriella has always expressed pride in his dual citizenship, but naturalized US citizens swear a pledge of allegiance that could be in conflict with the duties of a foreign head of state. Stefano Pozzebon, CNN Money, 22 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for allegiance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for allegiance
Noun
  • When the Gold Cloaks march into the palace and proclaim their new loyalties, Rickard’s men defy him by laying down their swords, too.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 29 June 2026
  • This column first addressed an employee’s duty of loyalty nine years ago, almost to the day.
    Dan Eaton, San Diego Union-Tribune, 29 June 2026
Noun
  • Buying a house felt like a commitment to building a future in a community that welcomed us.
    Cassandra Tresl, CNBC, 27 June 2026
  • Stone maintained his commitment to the fair treatment of Chesterton and Porter.
    Shelley Jones, Chicago Tribune, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • Some attendees spent months creating their costumes, sewing patterns and 3D-printing props just to attend the convention, and that dedication was shared by many at Charlotte Big Anime.
    Zaire Breedlove, Charlotte Observer, 28 June 2026
  • Even by these standards, some Costco fans’ dedication is next level.
    Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 27 June 2026
Noun
  • Courtesy of Judice & Araujo That encounter helped awaken his lifelong devotion to plants.
    Spencer Elliott, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026
  • This devotion to excellence has paved the way for EltaMD’s recognition by the likes of Hailey Bieber, Sydney Sweeney, Kendall Jenner, Drew Barrymore, and Gwyneth Paltrow.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 23 June 2026
Noun
  • The Data Problem Behind The Funding Problem Most transportation professionals understand the cost curve; the hurdle is a lack of high-fidelity data to act on it.
    Mark Pittman, Forbes.com, 25 June 2026
  • Windows 11 adds support for Bluetooth LE Audio, which improves battery life and music fidelity.
    Michael Muchmore, PC Magazine, 23 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Allegiance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/allegiance. Accessed 1 Jul. 2026.

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