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 addition to a pledge of fealty, the money can manifest as physical programming. Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 13 May 2025 But the panel featured a serious conversation over whether judges should have this power, rather than statements of fealty to Trump’s position. Ian Millhiser, Vox, 12 May 2025 Trump demands absolute loyalty and nothing else matters but fealty to him. Oren Oppenheim, ABC News, 15 May 2025 Public officials in the Justice Department, the Office of Legal Counsel, the FBI, and the Office of White House Legal Counsel, have traded in their duty to the law for fealty to a felon. Thomas G. Moukawsher, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fealty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fealty
Noun
  • The two men allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and had become radicalized over the internet.
    Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 27 June 2025
  • There’s also a triangle with Stella being in the center — Stanley and Blanche pulling at the allegiance of Stella.
    David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 June 2025
Noun
  • The luxury hotel titans appearing on this year’s list of readers’ favorite hotel brands have earned the admiration and loyalty of T+L readers by surpassing expectations at every turn, from top-tier accommodations to personalized service that makes every guest feel at home.
    Sarah Bruning, Travel + Leisure, 8 July 2025
  • Your ability to fully engage with your team, even for a few minutes, can build trust and loyalty far faster than long meetings filled with distractions.
    Dr. Eric George, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025
Noun
  • Yes, Trump disdains core elements of U.S. globalism, from the international trade system America established to its promotion of democratic values and its defense commitments around the world.
    Hal Brands, Twin Cities, 13 July 2025
  • This willingness to be imperfect fosters trust and demonstrates a genuine commitment to the journey of inclusion.
    Julie Kratz, Forbes.com, 13 July 2025
Noun
  • Duckworth encourages readers to cultivate long-term dedication to their goals, overcome setbacks, and maintain a growth mindset to achieve excellence.
    Jann E. Freed, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
  • Soliman's case has attracted wide attention since about 75 supporters held a press conference about his case just after his arrest: Local parents and medical professionals have been writing the immigration court, extolling his dedication to sick children.
    Patricia Gallagher Newberry, The Enquirer, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • Paul Libin’s devotion to both the artistry and the humanity of the theater made an indelible mark on Broadway and stages beyond.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 29 June 2025
  • Finally playing alongside her in Chicago, what stood out wasn’t just Parker’s talent, but her relentless devotion while juggling motherhood, a broadcasting career and a championship run.
    Anthony De Leon, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2025
Noun
  • Of course, a gaming monitor would easily increase your graphical fidelity, budget allowing.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 24 June 2025
  • The company put out a remake of The Wind Waker in 2013 for the Wii U, which included — among other things — a bump in fidelity to glorious HD.
    Luke Winkie, Vulture, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fealty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fealty. Accessed 18 Jul. 2025.

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