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 Founded in 2010, Jimmy Fairly has spent years building a loyal following among editors, stylists, and celebrities who gravitated toward the brand’s directional yet accessible approach to eyewear. Lauren Fisher, Footwear News, 16 May 2026 The data consistently shows that job switchers generally see higher year-over-year pay growth than loyal employees. Sho Dewan, Forbes.com, 16 May 2026 Al Arian says his hope is that the prequel – featuring rising talents such as Ahmed Malek – will draw a new generation of spectators to the franchise as well as loyal fans. Melanie Goodfellow, Deadline, 16 May 2026 The bottom line is that Republicans may talk like fighters, but increasingly behave like loyal courtiers. Rachel Marsden, Hartford Courant, 16 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Amid the uncertainty, however, Missouri Republican officials remain steadfast in their belief that the new map is in effect.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 18 May 2026
  • Because Aaron Rai is not Aaron Rai without a steadfast resistance to change.
    Gabby Herzig, New York Times, 18 May 2026
Adjective
  • Rubio is a staunch Catholic, while Hegseth, Johnson, Carson, and Scott identify as evangelical Christians.
    Emily Hallas, The Washington Examiner, 15 May 2026
  • That acknowledgement sparked an onslaught of questions that will likely rest on when Hoskins, a Republican and staunch supporter of the map, decides whether the campaign can reach the ballot.
    Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Rodríguez has also replaced senior officials, including Maduro’s faithful defense minister and attorney general.
    ABC News, ABC News, 14 May 2026
  • To say the Philadelphia Eagles faithful was ecstatic when the Miami Dolphins hired Kevin Patullo would be an understatement.
    Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • The series written by Tolkien, a devout Catholic, became a popular franchise with conservatives.
    Alexander Hall, FOXNews.com, 8 May 2026
  • There are other surprises in store for even the most devout Frankenthaler fans.
    Grace Edquist, Vogue, 7 May 2026
Adjective
  • This is true only in the narrowest sense.
    Brian Seibert, New Yorker, 13 May 2026
  • That was certainly true on Monday, as Lamont signed a new 124-page labor bill into law.
    Andrew Brown, Hartford Courant, 12 May 2026
Adjective
  • Some even require dedicated facilities, leading to inflated costs.
    Chris Young, Interesting Engineering, 14 May 2026
  • Snake River Farms provides its offerings specifically for dedicated home chefs and steak aficionados, who require better quality than what families need for their weekly freezer stock.
    Lyssanoel Frater, USA Today, 14 May 2026
Adjective
  • Hall, who came from Jamaica to New York City in 2023, was remembered at his funeral as a devoted family man and a loyal friend.
    Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 13 May 2026
  • The retreat’s strict, no-nonsense approach has earned it a devoted A-list following.
    Lauren Schuster, Sacbee.com, 11 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 19 May. 2026.

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