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 Remembering Matt Lee This weekend’s festival will also include a remembrance of one of its most loyal soldiers, musician and publicist Matt Lee, who died in June at 68. Duante Beddingfield, Freep.com, 3 Sep. 2026 Disney+ has leaned heavily on Korean drama in recent years to grow its Asia business, with the country becoming something of a content engine for the streamer, whereas Japan has proved to be one of the company’s most brand loyal markets. Abid Rahman, HollywoodReporter, 2 Sep. 2026 Tensions between Driscoll and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth have risen as Hegseth has dismissed many top military officers, replacing them with officers seen as more loyal to him. Brittney Melton, NPR, 1 Sep. 2026 The Angels remained a healthy box office draw to their loyal Orange County fans during most of his tenure, but the fan base had lost patience in recent years. ABC News, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
Adjective
  • The cigar lounge was steadfast in Sundance Square throughout Covid and the ever-changing business scene downtown.
    Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Sep. 2026
  • By the end of the primary, Moulton had apologized for his November 2024 remarks — and Markey’s steadfast support for trans rights was part of his re-election argument.
    David Weigel, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • When Johannès was left off the EuroBasket squad in 2023, she was caught between the French national team’s staunch requirements and the WNBA’s prioritization rule, which required her to be present for opening day.
    Eden Laase, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Johnson’s mayoral tenure has been marked by an inability to work with Springfield, a skill deficiency displayed by his staunch allies at the teachers union and the aligned board members on the CBOE.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Austin Simmons had quite the introduction to the Mizzou faithful Thursday night.
    PJ Green September 4, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2026
  • However, their time together ended when Tamburello, a faithful, turned on Parks, a traitor, and voted to banish her in episode 10.
    Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The religious approach appealed to devout Catholics such as Velazquez, an immigrant from Mexico who spent three decades without status in the country, cutting hair from her home and cleaning houses when business was slow.
    Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
  • Ade, a devout Christian and the family’s sole breadwinner, struggles to understand her younger sister Titi, an aspiring singer whose independent spirit challenges convention.
    Zac Ntim, Deadline, 28 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There was skepticism about Vizzina, who threw only 105 passes in his first three years at Clemson and then was pushed by true freshman Tait Reynolds for the starting role in preseason camp.
    Antonio Morales, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
  • This is true for the franchise as a whole; RHOA is the city that turned Housewives into a sport that requires real skill and charisma.
    Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The new system allows the drone to release supplies while hovering, drop payloads during forward flight, or land and unload cargo autonomously, eliminating the need for personnel or dedicated equipment at the receiving site.
    Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Guests in Red Level rooms (Gran Meliá’s premium service) can access a private club lounge for all-day snacks, meals, and drinks; dedicated check-in; a private concierge and a private terrace.
    Eddi Fiegel, Robb Report, 3 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Founded by Ralph Nader, the American Museum of Tort Law is the first and only museum of its kind devoted to educating the public about tort law.
    Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Jackie died last month after a weeks-long battle with a mysterious illness, setting off a torrent of heart-wrenching tributes and messages from her devoted fans who hailed from around the globe.
    Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

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

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