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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 Hip-hop fashion is known for its devotion to high-end labels and unapologetic flaunting of logos. Jihan Forbes, Allure, 6 May 2025 Waiting for a new record, without knowing if anything is coming at all, seems to have become a primary act of their devotion. Sophie Williams, Billboard, 1 May 2025 Known for his Marian devotion—which encourages piety and seeks the intercession of the Virgin Mary—and strict doctrinal stances, he is viewed as a potential challenger to Parolin, especially in early voting rounds and has odds of 7/1. Tom Rogers, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 Apr. 2025 But that’s the sheer surprise of Maybe Happy Ending, which manages to tackle giant thoughts of romance, trash, and a human devotion to tech, all within an hour and 40 minutes. Ct Jones, Rolling Stone, 29 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for devotion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devotion
Noun
  • Several stars voiced their love for Natasha and fam, including Andy Cohen, Julianne Moore, Richard E. Grant, and Amy Sedaris, who all left various heart emojis in comments on the post.
    EW.com, EW.com, 13 May 2025
  • The model included a photo of her, writing that despite the bittersweet day, she is filled with so much love.
    Taijuan Moorman, USA Today, 13 May 2025
Noun
  • The dedication of a park, statue, plaque or anything else for Rose will draw a crowd in Cincinnati.
    C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • His leadership and involvement in various organizations reflect his dedication to empowering global thinkers and contributing to the international business landscape.
    Muraly Srinarayanathas, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • That’s because these tax exemptions are provided only to organizations that are organized and operated primarily for charitable purposes, such as education, religion or scientific research.
    Philip Hackney, The Conversation, 9 May 2025
  • The election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American to hold the papacy, has added a new dynamic to the intersection of religion and politics in the United States.
    Kate Nalepinski, MSNBC Newsweek, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • Our shop has proudly served our community for more than 30 years, earning the affection of both local residents and the many tourists who visit each year.
    American Booksellers Association, USA Today, 3 May 2025
  • Then came the explosion of makeover shows that disguised cruelty as tough love, and reality dating shows that continue to pit a parade of interchangeable women against one another for the affections of the same male stranger.
    Maya Salam, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025
Noun
  • Members of the Dunkin' Rewards loyalty program can get a 10-count Munchkins order for $2 through May 15.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 10 May 2025
  • Unlike President Donald Trump who seems to have the hardest time developing the finessed ways of a seasoned politician, Pritzker became a fast learner of how to overtly and covertly use his riches to buy loyalty or crush those who stand in his way.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • Giddings interrogates the meaning of faith in a heady novel about love and family.
    Chris Vognar, Los Angeles Times, 14 May 2025
  • School of Love offers an intimate glimpse at some very personal journeys to faith, and the draw of intense religious communities.
    Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • The Savage brothers ultimately pursued other passions beyond acting, with Fred working extensively as a TV director and Ben getting into Los Angeles politics.
    Kevin Jacobsen, EW.com, 15 May 2025
  • However, that jolt of youth culture and passion for music didn’t translate with their neighbors.
    Nate Jackson, Los Angeles Times, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • His personal journey fuels his commitment to guiding families through the intricate landscape of financial tools and benefits available to support individuals with special needs.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • The movie opens on the construction site where the lad has difficulty keeping up with what appear to be rather modest responsibilities, revealing a lack of commitment on his part.
    Peter Debruge, Variety, 14 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Devotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devotion. Accessed 20 May. 2025.

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