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 Films like Jiro Dreams of Sushi turns craftsmanship into poetry, revealing the devotion and discipline behind a single perfect bite. Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 12 Mar. 2026 Dear Everything offers an antidote — the voices of visionary youth, powerful storytelling, inspirational music, and a deep devotion that opens portals to other realms. Greg Evans, Deadline, 10 Mar. 2026 The fallen soldiers, ages 20 to 42, earned praise from families for devotion to service, generosity and commitment to others. Hannah Fingerhut, Los Angeles Times, 4 Mar. 2026 Chin used the word homegoing as an Interpretation and Integration of how one species can captivate the Imagination of another species through devotion. Literary Hub, 3 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for devotion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devotion
Noun
  • Investigators said the two women shared a love interest who broke up with Perkins to be with Gonzalez.
    Emerson Clarridge Updated March 21, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 22 Mar. 2026
  • Not a lot of people get together for love.
    Souvankham Thammavongsa, New Yorker, 22 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • With a team of 17, Momosé said receiving the award is a testament to her staff’s dedication to connecting with guests and going above and beyond, a commitment rooted in the Japanese concept of omotenashi.
    Eva Remijan-Toba, Chicago Tribune, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Elliot approaches his craft with discipline and dedication, consistently pushing himself to explore new techniques, mediums, and ideas.
    Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Does placing them in public schools represent an establishment of religion?
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 20 Mar. 2026
  • Bigger Than Belief is a weekly podcast exploring faith, belief, and religion – all through the stories of believers.
    Adam Duxter, CBS News, 19 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • But the audience in the Dolby Theater had too much affection for, among other films, One Battle After Another and Sinners for this year’s Oscars to ever feel dutiful.
    David Sims, The Atlantic, 16 Mar. 2026
  • Leigh used every moment, every expression, to tell Blanche's story and to illustrate her torment, her delusion, and her desire for affection.
    Darren Franich, Entertainment Weekly, 15 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Widespread discontent, fueled by repression, economic failure, corruption and protests over rights and shortages, has eroded regime loyalty.
    Chuck DeVore, Chicago Tribune, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Bilas also called out hypocrisy among talking heads and fans about loyalty being far gone as the transfer portal has become more popular than ever.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 18 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The intersection of faith, money and politics creates natural dramatic stakes, complex characters and moral ambiguity.
    John Hopewell, Variety, 18 Mar. 2026
  • Generosity transforms the lessons of Ramadan into something visible, an expression of faith through action.
    Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 18 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • In recent years, Nicky has found his passion in painting and art.
    Lori A Bashian, FOXNews.com, 21 Mar. 2026
  • Huerta channels her passion into a union Dolores Clara Fernandez was born April 10, 1930, in Dawson, New Mexico.
    Stephanie Elam, CNN Money, 21 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Maxwell’s drive, commitment to quality journalism and development of intentional career goals were inspiring.
    Roderick Boone, Charlotte Observer, 22 Mar. 2026
  • Materials, produce, and products are sourced locally wherever possible and chef Mauro Colagreco’s commitment to circular gastronomy further reinforces the hotel’s eco-conscious approach.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Devotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devotion. Accessed 23 Mar. 2026.

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