faithful

play

adjective faith·ful \ˈfāth-fəl\

Definition of faithful

1 obsolete : full of faith
2 : steadfast in affection or allegiance : loyal a faithful friend
3 : firm in adherence to promises or in observance of duty : conscientious a faithful employee
4 : given with strong assurance : binding a faithful promise
5 : true to the facts, to a standard, or to an original a faithful copy

faithfully

play \ˈfāth-fə-lē\ adverb

faithfulness

noun

See faithful defined for English-language learners

See faithful defined for kids

Examples of faithful in a Sentence

She has provided the company with many years of faithful service.
He insists that he has always been faithful to his wife.

Origin and Etymology of faithful

see ¹faith

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 14th century

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Synonym Discussion of faithful

faithful, loyal, constant, staunch, steadfast, resolute mean firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance. faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted. faithful to her promise loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray. remained loyal to the czar constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows. constant friends staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it. a staunch defender of free speech steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction. steadfast in their support resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose. a resolute ally

faithful

noun faith·ful

Definition of faithful

1 plural in construction a : church members in full communion and good standing —used with theb : the body of believers in Islam —used with the
2 plural faithful or faithfuls : one who is faithful; especially : a loyal follower, member, or fan party faithfuls

Origin and Etymology of faithful

see ¹faith

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 15th century

See Words from the same year

FAITHFUL Defined for English Language Learners

faithful

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adjective

Definition of faithful for English Language Learners

: having or showing true and constant support or loyalty
: deserving trust : keeping your promises or doing what you are supposed to do
: not having sex with someone who is not your wife, husband, girlfriend, or boyfriend

FAITHFUL Defined for Kids

faithful

play

adjective faith·ful \ˈfāth-fəl\

Definition of faithful for Students

1 : firm in devotion or support a faithful friend
2 : reliable a faithful worker
3 : true to the facts : accurate The model was a faithful copy of my grandfather's car.