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 restaurant opened in April and is already building a loyal fanbase. Rose Androwich, jsonline.com, 6 Aug. 2025 Morticia reams Thing out for failing to be loyal to her and Gomez; Thing is tired of being treated like a servant. Jessica M. Goldstein, Vulture, 6 Aug. 2025 But there also remains the reality that Khamenei’s loyal conservative followers command a strong pull with domestic audiences. Shirvin Zeinalzadeh, The Conversation, 6 Aug. 2025 He’s been able to maintain his business due to a loyal customer base. The Detroit News, Chicago Tribune, 5 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • Exciting developments are on the horizon, but no matter how ebikes evolve, one rule remains steadfast: Buy a bike from a manufacturer that offers good customer support.
    Stephanie Pearson, Wired News, 8 Aug. 2025
  • From that same place comes her steadfast advocacy for the Latino community.
    Isabela Raygoza, Billboard, 6 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • And though public opinion is staunch and clear on this issue, Congress approved vast cutbacks.
    Brittany Allen, Literary Hub, 7 Aug. 2025
  • But the plan collapsed amid staunch opposition from Somalia, which has long opposed Somaliland’s independence and fears Ethiopia’s dominance of the region.
    Mulugeta Gebrehiwot Berhe, Foreign Affairs, 5 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Davies’s magnificent, faithful adaptation of Edith Wharton’s 1905 novel is a sumptuous triumph.
    Samantha Bergeson, IndieWire, 5 Aug. 2025
  • This opens up a huge question: what is any portrait faithful to?
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 4 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Many of the greatest scientists of the 17th and 18th centuries were devout Christians, whose faith motivated them to pursue their studies.
    Gregory J Rummo, Sun Sentinel, 10 Aug. 2025
  • Hermann, still a devout Catholic who prayed on his knees every night, would listen, nod, and occasionally offer spiritual advice.
    Nancy Walecki, The Atlantic, 7 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Whether that’s actually true or people just like to complain more 21 years after the original’s finale is certainly up for similar debate.
    Toni Fitzgerald, Forbes.com, 20 Aug. 2025
  • Here's a breakdown on what's true, what's relevant and what's being left out of the big picture.
    Juliana Kim, NPR, 19 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • Tourism, which the World Travel & Tourism Council projects will contribute more than US$21 billion to national GDP this year, receives a dedicated credit line that already exceeds RD$40 billion (approximately USD$665 million).
    Wyles Daniel, USA Today, 19 Aug. 2025
  • In older times, scientists needed a dedicated lab, because of equipment and mechanical tools.
    John Werner, Forbes.com, 18 Aug. 2025
Adjective
  • One of its lavish museums is devoted to Islamic art; another to the history of slavery and modern-day exploitation.
    Foreign Affairs, Foreign Affairs, 19 Aug. 2025
  • The devoted photographer still managed to get the perfect shots of the happy couple's big day.
    Alyce Collins, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Aug. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 23 Aug. 2025.

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