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 Christians must resist the temptation to turn faith into a tool of political loyalty. Letters To The Editor, The Orlando Sentinel, 8 Apr. 2026 Fanatics’ loyalty program has tripled in size in its first eight months, growing from 10 million to 30 million members. Eben Novy-Williams, Sportico.com, 8 Apr. 2026 Marriott first inked its iconic deal with Pepsi in 1992, creating what guests viewed as both fierce loyalty and bad decision-making. Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 8 Apr. 2026 Click above to watch Gadd and co-star Jamie Bell face off in a story about brotherhood, friendship, loyalty, anger and violence down the decades. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 7 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
  • In each case, NEXCOM’s dedication fuels the fleet’s momentum.
    Robert J Bianchi, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Apr. 2026
  • Next, Hansen read a poignant dedication to commander Reid Wiseman's late wife, Carroll, who died in 2020.
    Evan Bush, NBC news, 6 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Still, the perpetually unfulfilled Homelander craves utter devotion, which means ending Starlight herself and arresting every single Starlighter.
    Ben Rosenstock, Vulture, 8 Apr. 2026
  • Holland specifically points to Nolan’s devotion to practical, in-camera special effects.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 8 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 13 Apr. 2026.

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