steadfast

adjective

stead·​fast ˈsted-ˌfast How to pronounce steadfast (audio)
 also  -fəst
1
a
: firmly fixed in place : immovable
b
: not subject to change
the steadfast doctrine of original sinEllen Glasgow
2
: firm in belief, determination, or adherence : loyal
her followers have remained steadfast
steadfastly adverb
steadfastness noun

Did you know?

Steadfast has held its ground for many centuries. Its Old English predecessor, stedefæst, combines stede (meaning "place" or "stead") and fæst (meaning "firmly fixed"). The word was first used in battle contexts to describe warriors who stood their ground, which led to its "immovable" sense. That sense gave way to the word's use as an adjective implying unswerving faith, loyalty, or devotion.

Choose the Right Synonym for steadfast

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

Examples of steadfast in a Sentence

He was steadfast in his support of the governor's policies. a steadfast supporter of women's rights
Recent Examples on the Web Although show season has ended, Gigi’s allegiance to Miu Miu remains steadfast. Alex Kessler, Vogue, 7 Mar. 2024 But this time, the government has so far remained steadfast in its position and criticism, arguing that the walkout has compromised the health and safety of the public. Jin Yu Young, New York Times, 4 Mar. 2024 Despite these hurdles, Oatly's team, led at the time by CEO Toni Petersson, remained steadfast. Alexander Puutio, Forbes, 26 Feb. 2024 As much as Major Nine has made waves through collaboration, he’s remained steadfast in pumping out projects of his own. Kyle Denis, Billboard, 23 Feb. 2024 Contributor Among thought leaders and motivational speakers, Natasha Graziano exemplifies perseverance, self-awareness, and steadfast resolve. Svetlana Khachiyan, USA TODAY, 22 Feb. 2024 Her internal conflict is also a change from the book Dune, where Chani is a steadfast supporter of her messianic lover. Christian Holub, EW.com, 21 Feb. 2024 Reflecting on their near 50 year journey, both Theodore and Rita concur that maintaining a steadfast commitment to keeping God at the center of their relationship has been the anchor that has propelled them forward. Shelby Stewart, Essence, 15 Feb. 2024 Because of their steadfast allegiance to Trump, his core supporters may be more willing to overlook any gaffes or signs of decline, Stromer-Galley said. Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 13 Feb. 2024

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'steadfast.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English stedefast, from Old English stedefæst, from stede + fæst fixed, fast

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of steadfast was before the 12th century

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Dictionary Entries Near steadfast

Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/steadfast. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

steadfast

adjective
stead·​fast ˈsted-ˌfast How to pronounce steadfast (audio)
1
a
: firmly fixed in place
b
: not subject to change
a steadfast purpose
2
: firm in belief, determination, or allegiance
steadfast friends
steadfastly adverb
steadfastness noun

More from Merriam-Webster on steadfast

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