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 How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay Desert & Delta Safaris is not part of any loyalty program. Regan Stephens, Travel + Leisure, 20 May 2025 During her first tour, Leite launched a new, more modern and easier to shop store format, accelerated the digital side of the business, expanded private label offerings, grew third-party brand partnerships and the Healthy Awards loyalty program, and initiated international expansion with Vietnam. David Moin, Footwear News, 20 May 2025 The passes can be used to earn points towards Brightline Rewards, the railroad’s new loyalty program that was launched in March. David Lyons, Sun Sentinel, 20 May 2025 Beyond their fierce loyalty to competing luxury brands, Lawrence's artsy aesthetic favors breezy fabrics and eclectic accessories, while Stewart is a fan of structured suiting, daring haircuts, and an artful mix of masculine and feminine silhouettes. Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 18 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • Many have poked fun at the viral moment, jokingly expressing their allegiance with the disgruntled canine.
    Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025
  • While many of the discussion topics will be similar to those of other leagues’ CBA talks, the dynamics are different because of where fans’ allegiances lie within the sport.
    Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • His personal journey fuels his commitment to guiding families through the intricate landscape of financial tools and benefits available to support individuals with special needs.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • Sports content is expected to remain the dominant force in securing advertiser commitments during Upfronts this year, despite growing economic uncertainty.
    Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • The dedication of a park, statue, plaque or anything else for Rose will draw a crowd in Cincinnati.
    C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • His leadership and involvement in various organizations reflect his dedication to empowering global thinkers and contributing to the international business landscape.
    Muraly Srinarayanathas, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • Medieval England was incredibly tied to religious devotion.
    Charles Towers-Clark, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
  • The actor enhances his character’s long inner monologues with his eloquent ice-blue eyes, which can convey emotions ranging from disdain and discomfiture to despair and devotion.
    Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • Media outlets that once extolled restraint, constitutional fidelity, and the rule of law now amplify conspiracies, attack judicial oversight, and vilify democratic processes.
    Paul Du Quenoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 19 May 2025
  • An almost-floating front cover protects the drivers and can be easily removed when needed, for sound with greater fidelity and precision.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 24 May. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyalty

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!