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 For spring 2026, the brand didn’t disappoint either its loyal customers or the minimalist fans approaching its assortment for the first time. Sandra Salibian, Footwear News, 29 Sep. 2025 Gina remains loyal to Amy, who has at times treated her friend brusquely. Eric Andersson, PEOPLE, 29 Sep. 2025 Her success has helped Swift build a large and loyal fanbase, known as the Swifties. Lisa Respers France, CNN Money, 29 Sep. 2025 From pumpkin pasta sauces to apple cider donuts, all kinds of fall flavors have become a staple for many—but there's a particular seasonal bakery item that's garnered a loyal following at Trader Joe’s for years. Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 26 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Since trading for Mitchell in the summer of 2022, Cleveland has held steadfast in the belief that its contention window truly opens when Mobley is up for it.
    Joe Vardon, New York Times, 2 Oct. 2025
  • Despite the growing frustration surrounding the play, Payton remains steadfast in his belief that the play should not be outlawed.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Even after the Tennessee National Guard was summoned to restore order, staunch segregationists refused to let up.
    Andrea Williams, Nashville Tennessean, 27 Sep. 2025
  • Continue reading … POLITICS TURNING TABLES – Speaker Johnson flips script on Dem leaders with staunch warning against gov shutdown.
    , FOXNews.com, 26 Sep. 2025
Adjective
  • Any optimism lies in the Johnson faithful and WWE fans showing up.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Many faithful will fast from food and water for 25 hours beginning at the start of Yom Kippur.
    Jose R. Gonzalez, AZCentral.com, 1 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Alongside her estranged husband Ryan, the devout Moses (Hill), and new allies Samson (Feliz) and Delilah (Obsidian), Virginia must outmaneuver billionaire cult leader Luther Bell, played with magnetic menace by Esposito.
    Okla Jones, Essence, 4 Oct. 2025
  • Howard was remembered as a devout member of his church and a stubborn, loving patriarch.
    Liam Rappleye, Freep.com, 4 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Watching my great-grandmother, grandmother, mother and aunt serve as loyal members of this sorority shaped my understanding of what true sisterhood and service look like.
    Essence, Essence, 3 Oct. 2025
  • With markets looking unperturbed, that might turn out true sooner if nothing serious comes in the way of the bulls.
    Yeo Boon Ping, CNBC, 3 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Employees who do work on release day might be distracted by a lively group chat, as 10% of fans report their company has a dedicated Swiftie channel on Slack or Teams.
    Kristen Parisi, Fortune, 2 Oct. 2025
  • In Birmingham, Selfridges is planning another beauty hall, which will reach completion in November with 37 new counters and a dedicated fragrance space.
    Hikmat Mohammed, Footwear News, 2 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Housing a collection encompassing six decades of Husain’s practice, including paintings, films, tapestries, photographs, poetry, and installations, the museum will be the world’s first and largest devoted to the artist’s work.
    News Desk, Artforum, 1 Oct. 2025
  • Best Nike Shox Sneakers to Shop in 2025 Even the most devoted, new release–chasing sneakerheads can have a tough time determining what the ultimate It-shoe of the moment is.
    Stacia Datskovska, Footwear News, 1 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 6 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyal

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