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 The show uses large screens and high-fidelity audio to explore the artist’s life and career. — Jem Aswad, Variety, 5 Oct. 2026 Lay disciples typically uphold the vow of brahmacharya by maintaining fidelity toward their spouse. — Bhakti Mamtora, The Conversation, 30 Sep. 2026 The company relies on high-fidelity training simulators that replicate an infinite number of outcomes, such as system failures and peak-load scenarios, offline. — Miroslav Katsarov, Forbes.com, 10 Sep. 2026 In Mozart’s original, two Italian soldiers decide to test their lovers’ fidelity by pretending to head off to war. — ABC News, 5 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fidelity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fidelity
Noun
  • Donalds, a Republican congressman from Naples, had given MAGA and his dear leader complete and total loyalty, ignoring truth, facts and reality.
    — Sun Sentinel Editorial Board, Sun Sentinel, 2 Nov. 2026
  • Atmos Rewards, the loyalty program for Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines, has no award ticket change or cancellation fees.
    — Jason Stauffer, CNBC, 2 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Brazilian political scientist Jairo Nicolau, who studies presidential elections, said one of the most striking features of this year's contest was the rigidity of Brazilians' political allegiances.
    — Catherine Osborn, NPR, 26 Oct. 2026
  • Now Dallas Cowboy fans can wear their allegiance on their feet thanks to Stance, which is the latest company to sign a licensing deal with the National Football League.
    — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 26 Oct. 2026
Noun
  • Those fans deserve an organization that matches their commitment with the same level of excellence, urgency, and accountability.
    — Stephan Pechdimaldji, New York Daily News, 1 Nov. 2026
  • Rutgers has received commitments from 4-star forward Brandon Woodard, 4-star guard RJ Moore and 3-star guard Korey Francis as part of its 2027 recruiting class.
    — Everett Merrill, Chicago Tribune, 1 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • Mercer's dedication has also earned recognition from his colleagues.
    — Jamal Goss, CBS News, 2 Nov. 2026
  • His nicknames usually reflect his role as a catalyst—The Initiator, The Originator, The Godfather—yet less so his ingenuity and down-home dedication.
    — Gabriel Szatan, Pitchfork, 2 Nov. 2026
Noun
  • And the Joe’s devotion to its customers won’t wane, Sawitz said, adding that the restaurant will never turn away anybody who shows up at the back door desperate for something to eat, a longtime unwritten rule.
    — Connie Ogle, Miami Herald, 30 Oct. 2026
  • Some of Lakshmana’s actions complicate an idealized portrayal of his devotion.
    — Tamanna Nangia, Encyclopedia Britannica, 30 Oct. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fidelity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fidelity. Accessed 4 Nov. 2026.

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