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 The ultra-pro-Trump message board, whose members were accused of helping plan the January 6, 2021, attack on the US Capitol, has been one of the most loyal corners of the internet for the president. David Gilbert, Wired News, 14 July 2025 And maybe the Democrats in Washington should try being the loyal opposition again. William Z. Fox, Baltimore Sun, 14 July 2025 Trump built his Venezuela policy during his first term around sanctions, oil freezes, and criminal indictments — earning loyal support from Miami’s exile community. Miami Herald, 13 July 2025 The central involvement of Vought, who is viewed as one of Trump’s most loyal, knowledgeable and deeply effective lieutenants, represents an escalation in and of itself. Phil Mattingly, CNN Money, 11 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Its steadfast dedication to its classic roots, combined with a fearless spirit of innovation, results in pieces that never fail to amaze.
    Tianwei Zhang, Footwear News, 14 July 2025
  • But others in the political realm have been steadfast in their support of Gunn’s framing of the character.
    Olivia-Anne Cleary, Time, 12 July 2025
Adjective
  • Berrien is positioning himself as a staunch Trump backer in his first ads of the race.
    Scott Bauer, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • The eventual confirmation of his passing, delivered by solemn White House and medical officials, triggered an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum, even from those who had been his staunchest opponents.
    Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • Man’s best friend has been our faithful companion for thousands of years.
    Rudy Molinek, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 July 2025
  • In Clark Kent’s corner is reporter Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and his faithful companion Krypto the Superdog.
    Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • Nikki Glaser, who has attended 22 Eras Tour concerts and been a devout Swiftie, introduced the singer's award.
    Bryan West, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
  • The mixture of the spectacular Spidey elements will wow web-slinger fans from young children to seniors and the average MCU watcher to devout comic readers and collectors.
    Scott King, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
Adjective
  • This was certainly true of the Mets last summer when Taylor played his way into the lineup more consistently than Harrison Bader.
    Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 26 July 2025
  • This rings especially true for me, a vegetarian for nearly two decades.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 July 2025
Adjective
  • The spa even features a dedicated hair and nail salon, as well as two medical treatment rooms, a Zen Garden, a fitness center and yoga studio, and a variety of massage therapies.
    India Brown, Robb Report, 25 July 2025
  • Then Gilmore flamed out, lost everything, and became a dedicated boozer, making flasks out of everything from cucumbers to cuckoo clocks.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • And Vanderbilt University’s sports programs – and especially its two-time national champion baseball team coached by Tim Corbin – have a devoted following.
    Gentry Estes, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
  • Two lives lost Young’s loved ones described him as a devoted family man who brought joy and love to those around him.
    Nathan Pilling July 25, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 31 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyal

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