Definition of fidelitynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fidelity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fidelity are allegiance, devotion, fealty, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fidelity?

The words allegiance and fidelity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for fidelity?

While the synonyms devotion and fidelity are close in meaning, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When can fealty be used instead of fidelity?

The meanings of fealty and fidelity largely overlap; however, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When might loyalty be a better fit than fidelity?

The words loyalty and fidelity can be used in similar contexts, but 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 could piety be used to replace fidelity?

The synonyms piety and fidelity 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 fidelity Where the conservatives on the Court have framed it as a matter of fidelity to the Constitution and to our constitutional history, Trump is more straightforward about how this helps him. Will Gottsegen, The Atlantic, 30 June 2026 To renounce and abjure fidelity to any foreign power. Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 28 June 2026 The partnership with Qobuz, meanwhile, aligns Bey with a streaming platform that touts its high audio fidelity and industry-leading pay-per-stream for artists. Jazz Monroe, Pitchfork, 22 June 2026 In the case of Oz, a team of producers and AI specialists produced an entirely new version of the 1939 classic, tailoring it to the unique dimensions and fidelity of Sphere. Dade Hayes, Deadline, 16 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fidelity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fidelity
Noun
  • Set in and around the heart of bourbon country, the series mines explosive comedy from ideological collision and dysfunctional family loyalty.
    Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 13 July 2026
  • The show has certainly savaged Democrats at times, but its progressive loyalties have only grown clearer over the years.
    Chris Smith, Vanity Fair, 13 July 2026
Noun
  • Inspired, perhaps, by Haaland’s incredible performance to switch allegiances.
    Hannah Keyser, CNN Money, 5 July 2026
  • Drivers pledged their allegiance to Trump with decals and bumper stickers.
    Gustavo Arellano, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • The unique vow arrangement saw both Swift and Kelce deliver 20-minute speeches celebrating their love and commitment to one another.
    Chanel Vargas, InStyle, 6 July 2026
  • What distinguishes the Upper Room is its commitment to community.
    Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • His work on the show was commemorated with a special dedication.
    Angelique Jackson, Variety, 11 July 2026
  • But the skillful way in which they are woven together belies the efforts that went into telling this story, and Lovely Reader, this dedication to quality fascinates me.
    Rachel Elspeth Gross, Forbes.com, 10 July 2026
Noun
  • To his supporters, Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was the steadfast, fearless leader who transcended mere politics and inspired devotion.
    Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
  • What makes these behaviors especially dangerous is that they’re often disguised as concern or devotion.
    Mark Travers, CNBC, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fidelity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fidelity. Accessed 14 Jul. 2026.

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