Definition of devotionnext
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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 Over the years, the reports on Suri’s estrangement from her father largely blame his devotion to the controversial Church of Scientology. Martha Ross, Mercury News, 27 July 2026 The 10-episode drama about paternal anxiety and devotion wrapped up over the weekend. Kayti Burt, Time, 27 July 2026 But Cricket resists this vision, preferring a more solitary idea of artistic devotion, and the story’s sympathies lean in his direction. Tope Folarin, The Atlantic, 22 July 2026 But The Odyssey is the first time his devotion to the literal Real has been wielded so effectively. Paul A. Thompson, Pitchfork, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for devotion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devotion
Noun
  • Mariani described the feature as a love letter to an earlier internet that allowed young people — particularly those in the Global South — to find friendships, culture and identities beyond their immediate surroundings.
    Emiliano de Pablos, Variety, 30 July 2026
  • Here’s everything to know about the couples who fell in love on soap opera sets.
    Christina Dugan Ramirez, PEOPLE, 30 July 2026
Noun
  • Larter, who is known for her dedication to fitness, was seen in a black Alo sports bra with matching leggings during a workout session in a gym on the yacht.
    Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 2 Aug. 2026
  • True loyalty, the article contends, lies in dedication to one's craft, continuous learning, and impact.
    Vibhas Ratanjee, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Of course, Yamagata is a long way to go just to peep some jellyfish, so combine a visit with the misty temples of nearby Dewa Sanzan, three mountains sacred to the ascetics of the esoteric Shugendo religion.
    Jessica Kozuka, Travel + Leisure, 2 Aug. 2026
  • The jokes practically wrote themselves as an eclectic group of progressive pastors, imams and a rabbi walked into a room, finding their seats around a table to talk about religion and politics.
    ABC News, ABC News, 31 July 2026
Noun
  • They were first popularized in Georgian England as small tokens of affection, infatuation or mourning, and examples are scattered across major museums such as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
    Jacqui Palumbo, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
  • The touches of that child-like wonder and affection for their long-running fans was clear throughout Sunday’s show, from the vintage, colorful special effects to the band’s nostalgic set with callbacks to previous KC appearances.
    Sophie Lindberg, Kansas City Star, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Take Martha Stewart, who is often found wearing some variation of a jacket or shirt in rugged denim—and that loyalty tracks her entire career.
    Olivia Cigliano, InStyle, 4 Aug. 2026
  • And his laziness has long outstripped his loyalty to the queen.
    Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 3 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Ashton Lansdell is tattooed with reminders of her faith in herself.
    Marisa Ingemi, Los Angeles Times, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Free This annual service brings together affirming faith communities from across the Charlotte region to celebrate inclusion and support for LGBTQ+ people.
    Evan Moore August 1, Charlotte Observer, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • Golden has since turned her passion for photography into a professional career and now lives in Texas.
    Brian Maass, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026
  • What is certain, however, is his passion for helping teenagers through basketball and creating a system where quality coaching and training are more affordable.
    Ethan Hanson, Daily News, 1 Aug. 2026
Noun
  • As a press release concludes, the companies presented their partnership as the beginning of a long-term commitment, with other projects planned.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Many Farmers Union shareholders say the 25-year commitment to convey wastewater treated by the Eagle Sewer District will endanger their well-being.
    Noah Daly August 2, Idaho Statesman, 2 Aug. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Devotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devotion. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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