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 During Syria’s civil war that began in 2011, Suqaylabiyah was held by forces loyal to Assad while Qalaat al-Madiq was held by insurgent groups that eventually overthrew the Assad family’s 54-year rule. Omar Albam, Los Angeles Times, 28 Mar. 2026 During Syria’s conflict that began in 2011, Suqaylabiyah was held by forces loyal to Assad while Qalaat al-Madiq was held by insurgent groups that eventually overthrew the Assad family's 54-year rule. ABC News, 28 Mar. 2026 Pedretti’s Cherry is the coven’s earnest heart, curious and loyal and often in over her head. Kennedy French, Variety, 27 Mar. 2026 With over 12 million followers across platforms, Noor has built a massive and deeply loyal community. Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 27 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Their steadfast belief in this very personal film and commitment to getting it on marquees means so much to me.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Fielder has been the sole democratic socialist on the board and a steadfast advocate for progressive causes, often voting against Lurie’s legislative agenda and the board’s moderate majority bloc.
    Alyce McFadden, San Francisco Chronicle, 29 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Kiswani has been a lightning rod for political controversy, even taking stands against Mayor Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor and staunch proponent of Palestinian rights.
    Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Neither the United States nor Israel has accepted responsibility for the attack, which has come under staunch criticism from the United Nations and human rights groups.
    ABC News, ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • For faithful observers, the spring season is marked by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and sacrifice that starts on Ash Wednesday.
    Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Fishy Fishy, a longtime staple, stays faithful to what’s just come off the boat, while Catch of the Day turns a waterfront food truck into a lesson in simplicity done right.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • For devout followers of BTS, or their colleagues in groups like Blackpink and Stray Kids, sales figures and stream counts are not neutral matters of fact.
    Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
  • In addition to being a hysterical actor and writer, Wilson is a devout student of reality television and hosts the podcast Bitch Sesh about the Real Housewives franchise.
    Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 24 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • There was no true striker for England.
    Jack Pitt-Brooke, New York Times, 1 Apr. 2026
  • The Full Moon highlights your 4th House of Traditions, nudging you to think about what makes your residence a true home base.
    Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 1 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • Grier was a dedicated teaching assistant for New York City schools.
    Tony Aiello, CBS News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • If your fan has a remote, there may be a dedicated button for switching the rotation.
    Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 26 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Ronnie Bowman’s Expansive Catalog While Bowman earned devoted fans through his own performances, his reach as a songwriter extended far beyond the bluegrass world and into mainstream country music.
    Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 25 Mar. 2026
  • Russell — the devoted husband of Paige (Elle Chapman) — absorbs hornet stings and sharper barbs from his mother-in-law, Stacy Clyburn (Michelle Pfeiffer).
    Bryan Alexander, USA Today, 24 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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