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 The performances have gained the artist a loyal following within the New York art world, with works staged in venues ranging from MoMA PS1 to the Kitchen, where González debuted a new commission, Swerve Fatigue, earlier this year. Alex Greenberger, ARTnews.com, 6 Aug. 2026 The castings, announced by New York City Center today, will see Pierce portraying the put-upon blockhead Charlie Brown and Edebiri as his loyal if irreverent beagle Snoopy. Greg Evans, Deadline, 6 Aug. 2026 This new project is expected to resonate with Melania’s most loyal admirers, particularly among her supporters in Florida. Blanche Marcel, Vanity Fair, 6 Aug. 2026 DoorDash is seeing more orders, fueled by sky-high demand from its loyal subscribers, which should help its shares continue to bounce back, according to Evercore ISI. Liz Napolitano, CNBC, 6 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • And many on Wall Street remain steadfast in their belief that this cycle won’t be any different.
    Ryan Vlastelica, Fortune, 2 Aug. 2026
  • Herrera proactively trains staff for potential immigration enforcement, creating vital protocols due to a lack of external business guidance, embodying a steadfast commitment to protecting its community.
    Stephanie Gravalese, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • In neighboring Michigan, Democratic Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, a staunch progressive, has faced questions about his past support for defunding the police.
    ABC News, ABC News, 31 July 2026
  • Wicks is also generally a staunch vote for environmental protections, with her voting record notching a lifetime score of 95% on the California Environmental Voters ranking system.
    Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 30 July 2026
Adjective
  • According to historians, people in the ancient world argued over where Odysseus’ journeys took him and whether his wife, Penelope, was faithful.
    John Blake, CNN Money, 2 Aug. 2026
  • So to have an actual articulated toy, and one that looks incredibly faithful to the original design from the manga, is genuinely wonderful.
    Ollie Barder, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • As a devout Mormon, Steven's unexplained proximity to Las Vegas and a series of mysterious road trips point to unexpected secrets.
    Eileen Murphy, ABC News, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Over the decades, the principessa cake in particular has cultivated a devout — and fashionable — following.
    Bianca Betancourt, CNN Money, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Instead, the shoreline is made up of rocky outcroppings, making the pools—and the views—the true focal point.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 3 Aug. 2026
  • Thankfully for Chad Gable, his loss came in the match of the year in 2026, and this led to a babyface redemption tour with Chad Gable playing his true self as opposed to a heel luchador.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • However, the program was canceled after the Congress ended dedicated funding in 2022.
    Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Time’s explainer notes that current law confines claims to importers of record and customs brokers, and that any broad household compensation would likely have to come through a tax credit or dedicated rebate program enacted by Congress.
    Business Columnist, Los Angeles Times, 6 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • This is good news not only for Oliver’s devoted viewers, over 2 million of them streaming his weekly deep dives on YouTube alone, but also for his platform.
    Mikey O'Connell, HollywoodReporter, 31 July 2026
  • But before all of this, she was known to us as a devoted daughter.
    Alexa Herrera, CBS News, 31 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 9 Aug. 2026.

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