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 Instead, the public spat between the young Fedorov and older general led Zelensky to stick with the old, loyal guard. Nick Paton Walsh, CNN Money, 22 July 2026 These sneakers have earned a loyal following among those who seek just the right balance of soft cushioning and structure. Tanya Sharma, PEOPLE, 22 July 2026 That commitment has earned him a loyal following in a field that's getting more crowded by the year. Malana Vantyler, USA Today, 22 July 2026 In The Odyssey, John Leguizamo plays loyal, blind swineherd Eumaeus. Bailey Bujnosek, InStyle, 21 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Mormons may lapse in their faith, but their work ethic is steadfast.
    Gustavo Turner, HollywoodReporter, 24 July 2026
  • The plan was steadfast to pile up premier pitchers to help veteran ace Garrett Crochet (18-5 in 2025) and closer Aroldis Chapman (32 saves in 2025).
    Chuck Murr, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026
Adjective
  • The Northwest Indiana Forum has been a staunch supporter of data centers, but that didn’t color the study’s findings, Ross said.
    Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 26 July 2026
  • Jones, in the first major race of his political career, faces a staunch challenge in Thompson, who has held the seat for 30 years and glided into the general election with almost 41% of the vote.
    Evelyn Ronan, Sacbee.com, 22 July 2026
Adjective
  • Apple’s faithful community will have synced up their mobile contracts to make an easy upgrade on a 12- or 24-month basis.
    Ewan Spence, Forbes.com, 27 July 2026
  • Or maybe Holland sends some love to the Hall H faithful via video message.
    Brendan Morrow, USA Today, 26 July 2026
Adjective
  • While Auguste and two of Damien’s older sisters, Eugenie and Pauline, were being prepared for religious service by devout Anne-Catherine, Frans wanted Jozef for the farm.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 20 July 2026
  • The film unfolds in a devout fishing community on Malaysia’s East Coast, following two young lovers, Jani and Melur, whose plans for the future are upended by an unplanned pregnancy, poverty and addiction, pushing Jani toward the drug trade.
    Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 19 July 2026
Adjective
  • As is true for many other industries in China, intense competition at home is driving companies to expand globally.
    ABC News, ABC News, 26 July 2026
  • While the event offered charitable benefits, Rocket Companies' true commitment is a $500 million, 10-year philanthropic initiative.
    Tonya M. Evans, Forbes.com, 26 July 2026
Adjective
  • Charlotte deploys about 10 dedicated litter crews in the field each day.
    Nick Sullivan, Charlotte Observer, 24 July 2026
  • Thanks to dedicated allergy protocols and an impressive range of gluten-free meals, snacks and desserts, dining can become a part of the magic instead of a source of stress.
    AJC.com, AJC.com, 24 July 2026
Adjective
  • Costco has retail's most devoted fans Who is eligible for a payment?
    Anthony Thompson, USA Today, 24 July 2026
  • Now, a new documentary, created in association with Rolling Stone, is spotlighting the devoted fans that turned the comment into a global rallying cry.
    Rolling Stone, Rolling Stone, 23 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 28 Jul. 2026.

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