Definition of loyalnext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word loyal distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of loyal are constant, faithful, resolute, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is constant a more appropriate choice than loyal?

The meanings of constant and loyal largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

When can faithful be used instead of loyal?

Although the words faithful and loyal have much in common, faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

When would resolute be a good substitute for loyal?

The synonyms resolute and loyal are sometimes interchangeable, but resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use staunch instead of loyal?

While the synonyms staunch and loyal are close in meaning, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

Where would steadfast be a reasonable alternative to loyal?

While in some cases nearly identical to loyal, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 loyal Those who are not as loyal to the brand may find the price a bit steep compared to other luxury options in the area. Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 June 2026 Many, many, many of you loyal readers wanted to know if this was some kind of record. Jayson Stark, New York Times, 5 June 2026 In the meantime, Rancier said he's been getting an outpouring of support from loyal customers. Nick Caloway, CBS News, 4 June 2026 What moved me most in The Testaments was its cast of teenage girls — the Plums seemed to be sparkling, creative, impulsive, curious, deeply loyal, and ready to question the world around them. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 4 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Douglas County remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and adherence to Colorado Open Meeting laws.
    Olivia Young, CBS News, 8 June 2026
  • The throughline of his life is his on-again, off-again friendship with, but also his steadfast love for a neighbor girl of the upper class, who challenges him repeatedly to become his better self.
    The Know, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • Palace’s defence, so staunch for much of this campaign, snuffed out any serious danger.
    Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 28 May 2026
  • But the Veterans Park Neighborhood Association, staunch opponents of the shelter location, went to court in December over the city’s previous decision.
    Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 28 May 2026
Adjective
  • Karl-Anthony Towns was hit with two fouls in just the first 62 seconds of the game, one which the Knicks faithful were not happy with.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 11 June 2026
  • The trip, though, has underscored how the country of 50 million people, which experienced a religious crisis after its 20th-century dictatorship ended, still has plenty of faithful Catholics who have turned out in droves to welcome the American pope.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • She was controlled, socially formidable, devout, exacting and sometimes devastatingly funny.
    ABC News, ABC News, 6 June 2026
  • Our father was a devout Christian and a devoted, loving, family man.
    Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026
Adjective
  • Attleboro managed a two-out walk but Salerno limited any true damage in the top of the eighth.
    Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
  • Huang pitched herself as the true progressive in the race, saying Raman had drifted too close to the middle during her time on council.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • Starting with Thursday’s kickoff match between Mexico and South Africa, Bambina’s will host eight dedicated watch parties.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 11 June 2026
  • On an April call with investors, Musk said the company is currently using existing charging stations and service centers for its robotaxis, but will eventually need dedicated locations.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • Edgar Ramírez will play Miguel Contreras, a devoted family man and loyal DEA second-in-command torn between duty and guilt.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 10 June 2026
  • Tarras showed videos in which colleagues described Herek as a devoted father who has volunteered as a coach in youth and masters swimming programs in Broward County.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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