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 Still, even among observers who were skeptical of the company’s current valuation, many acknowledge Musk’s achievements building Tesla and SpaceX into giants — and making money for investors, thanks in part to his loyal retail investor fanbase. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 12 June 2026 Edwards is a good, kind, and loyal friend, but also struggles with depression and alcoholism. Kelly Martinez, Entertainment Weekly, 12 June 2026 Seed previews with neighborhood creators, loyal community voices and adjacent businesses. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Central to that vision is a commitment to celebrating the brand's Scottish roots while cultivating a loyal international following. Monique Jessen, PEOPLE, 12 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Douglas County remains steadfast in its commitment to transparency and adherence to Colorado Open Meeting laws.
    Olivia Young, CBS News, 8 June 2026
  • The throughline of his life is his on-again, off-again friendship with, but also his steadfast love for a neighbor girl of the upper class, who challenges him repeatedly to become his better self.
    The Know, Denver Post, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • In that post, Wyden, a staunch Democrat, sounded a lot like Florida's Rick Scott, one of the most conservative members of the Senate.
    Zachary Schermele, USA Today, 10 June 2026
  • The Supreme Court allowed the firing to go through on a temporary basis, over staunch dissents from the court's three liberal justices.
    Nina Totenberg, NPR, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • Karl-Anthony Towns was hit with two fouls in just the first 62 seconds of the game, one which the Knicks faithful were not happy with.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 11 June 2026
  • The trip, though, has underscored how the country of 50 million people, which experienced a religious crisis after its 20th-century dictatorship ended, still has plenty of faithful Catholics who have turned out in droves to welcome the American pope.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • That could convert even devout casuals.
    Mirjam Swanson, Los Angeles Times, 13 June 2026
  • The woman, a devout Catholic, escaped after kicking Griffiths and striking him with a lamp, according to the statement.
    Lillie Davidson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 12 June 2026
Adjective
  • Attleboro managed a two-out walk but Salerno limited any true damage in the top of the eighth.
    Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
  • Huang pitched herself as the true progressive in the race, saying Raman had drifted too close to the middle during her time on council.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • Starting with Thursday’s kickoff match between Mexico and South Africa, Bambina’s will host eight dedicated watch parties.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 11 June 2026
  • On an April call with investors, Musk said the company is currently using existing charging stations and service centers for its robotaxis, but will eventually need dedicated locations.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • Edgar Ramírez will play Miguel Contreras, a devoted family man and loyal DEA second-in-command torn between duty and guilt.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 10 June 2026
  • Tarras showed videos in which colleagues described Herek as a devoted father who has volunteered as a coach in youth and masters swimming programs in Broward County.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 15 Jun. 2026.

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