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 But take the owner out of the equation, and the loyal customers stop coming, while the accounts become uncertain overnight. Jason Sisneros, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2026 Olipop’s seasonal flavors always develop a loyal following, and Crisp Apple is a favorite that’s coming back this year. Danielle Bouchard, Martha Stewart, 15 Sep. 2026 Why locals keep coming back Beyond the headlines, Eleven Lakes runs on nearly a decade of loyal regulars. Evan Moore, Charlotte Observer, 15 Sep. 2026 Her collections balance masculine and feminine energy while building a strong and loyal community. Wwd Staff, Footwear News, 14 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Macklemore held steadfast to his position — that the ongoing war in Gaza has resulted in the deaths of thousands of children — and found supporters among the other openers on Sheeran’s tour and his backing band, who dropped out in solidarity.
    Shirley Halperin, Rolling Stone, 17 Sep. 2026
  • But love him or hate him, the former quarterback has remained steadfast.
    Mike Jones, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Some of the nations attending the meeting in western Ukraine's Ivano-Frankivsk region, such as Poland and Romania, have been staunch supporters of Ukraine.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 19 Sep. 2026
  • Some of the nations attending the meeting in western Ukraine’s Ivano-Frankivsk region, such as Poland and Romania, have been staunch supporters of Ukraine.
    Samya Kullab, Los Angeles Times, 18 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Is there an argument to be made that John Schneider is doing an amazing job this year amid injuries, tough breaks and high expectations from the Jays faithful?
    Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
  • Austin Simmons had quite the introduction to the Mizzou faithful Thursday night.
    PJ Green September 4, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The early Robin Hood was no polished folk hero, Jones says, but a violent, devout yeoman pushed to society’s edge by corrupt officials.
    JP Mangalindan, Time, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Johnny Cash was a lot of things — devout Christian, country superstar, anti-Vietnam activist, variety show host.
    Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 8 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Showrunner Felicia Pride brought the concept to the streaming service with a goal to modernize the look and feel of the show while staying true to much of the feeling from the original.
    Mya Copeland, Variety, 18 Sep. 2026
  • As much as there’s little room for nuance in the interval of frenzied overreaction that is Week 1 of the NFL season, two seemingly contradictory statements can be true at the exact same time.
    Anthony Crupi, Sportico.com, 18 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Cons No checking account or ATM access, so this works best as a dedicated savings account paired with another bank.
    Ryley Amond, CNBC, 17 Sep. 2026
  • Drivers can trigger the car's full performance via a dedicated illuminated red GTI button on the steering wheel.
    New Atlas, New Atlas, 17 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Secondo is dating a good-natured and devoted young American woman (Minnie Driver), while simultaneously having an affair with Pascal’s Italian girlfriend and hostess (Isabella Rossellini).
    Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 20 Sep. 2026
  • The cult fashion house has a devoted following among Gen Z and fans of alternative fashion and pop culture, including anime enthusiasts familiar with Westwood’s distinctive Orb logo.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 19 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 21 Sep. 2026.

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