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 Knicks fans, known for their rowdiness and downright devotion to the team, took to watch parties, bars and gatherings to see the game. Amethyst Martinez, USA Today, 9 June 2026 In an era of Patreon, Substack, and, yes, OnlyFans, some artists are focused on translating devotion into revenue. John Kennedy, VIBE.com, 9 June 2026 Every four years soccer gathers for its championship and its intense global devotion is amplified. Blair Kerkhoff, Kansas City Star, 8 June 2026 Pencov was not alone in her devotion. Heidi Blake, New Yorker, 8 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for devotion
Recent Examples of Synonyms for devotion
Noun
  • Her family says her work was rooted in love, joy and faith.
    Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 8 Dec. 2025
  • This show is made with love, it was created with love, it's built around family, and our fans are our family.
    Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 8 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • As my eyes processed that large blue plus sign, a new version of love and dedication exploded through my chest.
    Jayme Serbell, Vogue, 15 June 2026
  • Their dedication did not just solve a cold case.
    DeJanay Booth-Singleton, CBS News, 15 June 2026
Noun
  • Previously, there were more than 200 religions officially recognized.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 11 June 2026
  • Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the AP’s collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc.
    Nicole Winfield, Fortune, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Through a series of cinematic contrivances, Tess borrows Katharine’s skirt suit, claims due credit for her business sense, and wins the affections of Katharine’s financier boyfriend (Harrison Ford).
    Molly Fischer, New Yorker, 15 June 2026
  • My affection for our national symbol doesn’t ignore the tragic dark side of our story.
    Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 14 June 2026
Noun
  • His politics are rooted in loyalty, grievance, retaliation, and the constant testing of institutional limits.
    Paul Oestreicher, Hartford Courant, 10 June 2026
  • Some leaders earn the type of loyalty that guarantees them allies even as their fortunes fall, while leaders who rely on intimidation are the first to find themselves alone once their influence diminishes.
    Colin Pascal, Baltimore Sun, 10 June 2026
Noun
  • The husband and wife's community service began with a step of faith among fellow church members.
    Sharon Chin, CBS News, 11 June 2026
  • Addressing reporters for the first time since The Associated Press projected a November runoff between her and Mayor Karen Bass, Raman said residents are losing faith in the city’s ability to solve even basic problems and are demanding a different approach.
    Teresa Liu, Daily News, 11 June 2026
Noun
  • Productivity and output went up; passion and joy went down.
    Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 8 Dec. 2025
  • Meanwhile, Font says, her passion to be onstage and make music remained strong.
    Nancy Kruh, PEOPLE, 8 Dec. 2025
Noun
  • The additional tricky part is that extending Porziņģis at any realistic number likely pushes the Hawks into the tax a year from now, given Atlanta’s existing commitments plus likely extensions for Young and Dyson Daniels and salary for a 2026 lottery pick.
    John Hollinger, New York Times, 7 July 2025
  • Every time Ray got Cale pinned down to a schedule, there’d be changes due to Cale’s other commitments.
    Kory Grow, Rolling Stone, 7 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Devotion.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/devotion. Accessed 17 Jun. 2026.

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