Definition of fidelitynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fidelity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fidelity are allegiance, devotion, fealty, loyalty, and piety. While all these words 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

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fidelity?

The words allegiance and fidelity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for fidelity?

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

a painter's devotion to her art

When can fealty be used instead of fidelity?

The meanings of fealty and fidelity largely overlap; however, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When might loyalty be a better fit than fidelity?

The words loyalty and fidelity can be used in similar contexts, but 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 could piety be used to replace fidelity?

The synonyms piety and fidelity are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 fidelity This is how the Architects of Banality operate, not through neglect but through fidelity to benchmarks and peer comparison. Big Think, 20 Mar. 2026 Though the shows have achieved varying levels qualitatively, perhaps their greatest collective merit has been their evident effort at fidelity to the source material. Daniel Fienberg, HollywoodReporter, 10 Mar. 2026 With the crisper fidelity of studio recording comes music that’s more direct and guitar-oriented. Jude Noel, Pitchfork, 9 Mar. 2026 This pair supports Hi-Res and LDAC audio for improved fidelity when your streaming service or music files allow, at the cost of a few hours of playtime. New Atlas, 7 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fidelity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fidelity
Noun
  • That pack loyalty appeared to be what kept them united through their harrowing escape and long walk home.
    Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Common projects focus on strengthening profitable growth initiatives such as improving loyalty programs, responding to competitive threats, or identifying strategies to lift comparable store sales.
    Malana VanTyler, USA Today, 25 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The day started on the CPAC main stage with the pledge of allegiance, the national anthem and Arizona pastor Joshua Navarrete’s prayer asking for blessings for the president and Israel.
    Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Virunga's forests are also believed to have been used as a hideout by fighters from the ADF militia, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadist group.
    CBS News, CBS News, 26 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Your strength and your commitment told us that this is still America.
    Sarah D. Wire, USA Today, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Eco effort The resort recently partnered with WiseOceans, a global marine conservation and education company, to implement marine conservation programming and further the property’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Mike Alexander, a frequent flier traveling to Orlando before heading to Indianapolis to watch the Michigan men's basketball team compete in the Final Four, praised the dedication of TSA officers.
    Hannah McIlree, CBS News, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The dedication event honored the Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo’s long-standing support of The Shea Center and other south Orange County nonprofits through the RMV Rodeo proceeds.
    Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Friends with a sudden devotion to nature begin making plans to convene in parks; TurboTax becomes your closest email companion; your risk of injury at the hands of a lunatic on a City Bike, haunted by the memory of a New Year’s resolution to exercise, may increase.
    Elly Leavitt, Vogue, 25 Mar. 2026
  • To the fans — your unwavering devotion and support are the reason this show remains such a force.
    Jackie Strause, HollywoodReporter, 25 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fidelity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fidelity. Accessed 1 Apr. 2026.

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