Definition of fealtynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fealty distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fealty are allegiance, devotion, fidelity, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fealty?

While the synonyms allegiance and fealty are close in meaning, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

In what contexts can devotion take the place of fealty?

The meanings of devotion and fealty largely overlap; however, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When could fidelity be used to replace fealty?

While in some cases nearly identical to fealty, fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

When would loyalty be a good substitute for fealty?

The words loyalty and fealty 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 might piety be a better fit than fealty?

The synonyms piety and fealty 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 fealty In accordance with the film’s main theme of toxic white colonialism, Kennedy treats Philomac with contempt but shows a weird fealty to Casey. Damon Wise, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026 How to think about thinking about cabbage Trends demand both fealty and novelty. Scott Hocker, TheWeek, 17 Feb. 2026 Roy has countered by stressing his conservative record and independence, saying the job is about enforcing the law and defending Texas – not personal fealty. Philip Jankowski, Dallas Morning News, 7 Feb. 2026 The post has sparked a bipartisan backlash and will be sure to test the limits of Republican fealty to Trump, which, amid the chaos of his second term, has been a constant. Aidan McLaughlin, Vanity Fair, 6 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fealty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fealty
Noun
  • Winston’s sports allegiances have changed, too.
    Julie Belcove, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Brian was obsessed with being the Rolling Stones’ leader but had grown moody ever since Keith’s allegiance shifted to Mick.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Members of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program can pack up to 12 bottles in a box or case weighing 50 pounds or less.
    Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Your laugh, your kindness, your wit, your strength, your loyalty, your passion, and your zest for life.
    Becca Longmire, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Messenger Mercury in your 7th House of Partnership squares expansive Jupiter in your 10th House of Career, pushing conversations about commitments, expectations, and time.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • As of Friday, the San Diego Housing Commission had not yet received its annual HUD funding commitment.
    Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The team held a pre-game ceremony at Truist Park to celebrate Snitker, 70, for his illustrious career and dedication to the franchise.
    Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 26 Apr. 2026
  • What stood out most was the crew’s dedication and enthusiasm, along with the intimacy of the experience; the ship is designed for just 100 guests.
    David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Locating the wreck connects us to their sacrifice and reminds us that devotion to duty endures.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Their language — marked by rich, tactile detail and a colloquial urgency — has quietly shaped how generations of songwriters articulate devotion.
    New York Times, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The only other treatment option for children with genetic deafness is cochlear implants, Shearer said, which restore the ability to hear speech and music, but reduce the fidelity of the sound.
    Berkeley Lovelace Jr, NBC news, 23 Apr. 2026
  • But this should not be confused with fidelity or long-term commitment.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fealty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fealty. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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