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Synonym Chooser

How is the word devotion distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of devotion are allegiance, fealty, fidelity, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When could allegiance be used to replace devotion?

While the synonyms allegiance and devotion are close in meaning, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would fealty be a good substitute for devotion?

The words fealty and devotion can be used in similar contexts, but fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When might fidelity be a better fit than devotion?

In some situations, the words fidelity and devotion are roughly equivalent. However, fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

Where would loyalty be a reasonable alternative to devotion?

The words loyalty and devotion 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 is it sensible to use piety instead of devotion?

Although the words piety and devotion have much in common, 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 devotion Congressional oversight remains the primary check, but with Republicans controlling both chambers and illustrating a slavish devotion to Trump, impeachment is politically unrealistic regardless of legal merit. Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 June 2025 The pilgrimage is an act of spiritual devotion and cultural preservation. Zia Ur-Rehman Asim Hafeez, New York Times, 30 May 2025 Though devotion plays an important role in how Muslims observe Eid al-Adha, there is also room to come together and have fun. Amaris Encinas, USA Today, 7 June 2025 This timepiece represents an unshakeable vision, fusing MR-G’s commitment to ultimate strength and beauty with the Zen devotion to contemplating one’s own nature and an integrated worldview of serenity. Fairchild Studio, Footwear News, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for devotion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devotion
Noun
  • The notes came from every corner of Sofia’s school life, with each teacher offering encouragement, wisdom and love.
    Ashley Vega, People.com, 18 June 2025
  • And the Greek goddess of love, pleasure and beauty is also at the ready.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 June 2025
Noun
  • The exchange best exemplified the unwavering dedication Armani has for his job.
    Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 20 June 2025
  • Throughout her time away, it has been reported that James has impressed many within WWE with her strong work ethic and dedication to her recovery.
    Andrew Ravens‎, MSNBC Newsweek, 20 June 2025
Noun
  • By targeting people based on their race, religion, or nationality, from countries with predominantly Black, Brown and Muslim-majority populations, this blanket ban constitutes racial discrimination under international human rights law.
    Mandy Taheri, MSNBC Newsweek, 15 June 2025
  • Prior to joining Fox News, Alexandra covered breaking news, crime, religion, and the military in the southeast.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 15 June 2025
Noun
  • The convergence of reason and gallantry, of irony and affection, struck a teasing tone.
    Merve Emre, New Yorker, 16 June 2025
  • Engaging in this kind of play and affection shows boys that warmth, kindness and love aren’t just feminine qualities –– dads do it, too, Chu said.
    Madeline Holcombe, CNN Money, 15 June 2025
Noun
  • Since joining the oneworld Alliance in 2013, Qatar has offered codeshare and loyalty integration with 13 major carriers.
    Judy Koutsky, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
  • At the nucleus of their brotherhood were love, loyalty, and the zeal to expand their drug trafficking enterprise.
    Taylor Ardrey, USA Today, 13 June 2025
Noun
  • Retire Wealthy Retiring wealthy takes long-term planning plus a good dose of faith.
    Catherine Brock, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • Furthermore, the quick call-up represents the Angels’ faith in their young infield trio.
    Dhani Joseph, New York Times, 18 June 2025
Noun
  • Imagine telling any of the women in that hairdressers shop that art should be untouched by national and political passion, particularly in time of war.
    Kamila Shamsie June 20, Literary Hub, 20 June 2025
  • Dear Abby: In the four years my husband and I have been married, his distaste for the LGBTQ community has grown into a passion.
    Abigail Van Buren, Boston Herald, 19 June 2025
Noun
  • Republican senators praised her leadership, especially her commitment to rolling back Biden-era regulations and guidance on gender-identity rights, which Lucas has argued overstepped the commission's authority.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 19 June 2025
  • Leaders set the tone, so showing inclusion and commitment will encourage team members to follow suit.
    Simone E. Morris, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Devotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devotion. Accessed 28 Jun. 2025.

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