Definition of loyaltynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word loyalty distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of loyalty are allegiance, devotion, fealty, fidelity, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," loyalty implies a faithfulness that is steadfast in the face of any temptation to renounce, desert, or betray.

valued the loyalty of his friends

When is allegiance a more appropriate choice than loyalty?

The meanings of allegiance and loyalty largely overlap; however, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for loyalty?

The words devotion and loyalty are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When might fealty be a better fit than loyalty?

In some situations, the words fealty and loyalty are roughly equivalent. However, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

In what contexts can fidelity take the place of loyalty?

The synonyms fidelity and loyalty are sometimes interchangeable, but fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

When can piety be used instead of loyalty?

The words piety and loyalty can be used in similar contexts, but piety stresses fidelity to obligations regarded as natural and fundamental.

filial piety

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 loyalty Bishops were major landholders and political figures; controlling their selection meant controlling wealth, loyalty and governance. Joëlle Rollo-Koster, Fortune, 15 Apr. 2026 Using travel credit cards and loyalty programs in everyday life can also unlock free stays, upgrades and lounge access. Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 14 Apr. 2026 That loyalty makes conservation efforts difficult. Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 14 Apr. 2026 Travel credit cards and loyalty programs can also unlock free stays, upgrades and lounge access — worth looking into before your trip. Lauren Schuster, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • Our allegiance is not to any person or party, but to the reign of God, where truth matters, dignity is upheld, and power is held accountable.
    Letters to the Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2026
  • Balat also wrote a statement declaring his allegiance to the Islamic State, Tisch said.
    Alexa Herrera, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar called on Iran and the United States to keep their commitment to maintain a ceasefire, after both countries ended historic face-to-face talks without an agreement.
    ABC News, ABC News, 12 Apr. 2026
  • Kaylee and Summit's history is littered with commitment issues, break-ups, and make-ups, and those old wounds remain evident during the final bonfire.
    Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 11 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Cass High officials said the school will carry forward Dean's commitment to students and his example of compassion and dedication.
    Zachary Bynum, CBS News, 14 Apr. 2026
  • His hard work and dedication led him to it.
    Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 12 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Rural, poor voters eagerly support candidates who flaunt their devotion to big-city business interests such as utilities or real estate developers.
    Steve Bousquet, The Orlando Sentinel, 15 Apr. 2026
  • Team devotion may not be sensible.
    USA TODAY, USA Today, 15 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Bose Bluetooth Speaker Deal The Bose SoundLink Flex is a rugged, high-fidelity speaker that refuses to quit.
    Juhi Wadia, PC Magazine, 8 Apr. 2026
  • Perhaps the most reassuring detail for fans concerned about canon fidelity is how much Martin has endorsed this production.
    Ryan Brennan April 3, Charlotte Observer, 3 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 16 Apr. 2026.

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