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 Shifting loyalties, complicated emotions, and unexpected challenges force their circle to confront difficult truths, as new opportunities and past tensions collide—raising the stakes and setting the stage for lasting consequences. Rosy Cordero, Deadline, 22 Apr. 2026 The award goes to one Bears rookie and one veteran player who exemplifies the courage, loyalty, teamwork, dedication and sense of humor of the late Piccolo. Eileen T. Meslar, Chicago Tribune, 21 Apr. 2026 Your laugh, your kindness, your wit, your strength, your loyalty, your passion and your zest for life. Brenton Blanchet, PEOPLE, 21 Apr. 2026 Still, the government sought to measure their loyalty. Hua Hsu, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • Winston’s sports allegiances have changed, too.
    Julie Belcove, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Brian was obsessed with being the Rolling Stones’ leader but had grown moody ever since Keith’s allegiance shifted to Mick.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Messenger Mercury in your 7th House of Partnership squares expansive Jupiter in your 10th House of Career, pushing conversations about commitments, expectations, and time.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • As of Friday, the San Diego Housing Commission had not yet received its annual HUD funding commitment.
    Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Stockdale's discoveries and dedication resulted in the Astronomical Society of Australia (ASA) awarding him the 2026 Berenice and Arthur Page Medal.
    Lexi Lane, PEOPLE, 19 Apr. 2026
  • For me, being an artist is about hard work, dedication, and pushing yourself to create something that matters.
    Heide Janssen, Oc Register, 19 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Unlike the director Tyler Perry, whose devotion to telling Black stories inspired him to build a parallel version of Hollywood in Atlanta, Fuqua has always been intent on succeeding within Hollywood itself.
    Kelefa Sanneh, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026
  • Numerous friends and family members, in interviews with the News, described Griffin as a peaceful man, known for his devotion to God as much as his spitfire lyrics.
    Roni Jacobson, New York Daily News, 19 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The only other treatment option for children with genetic deafness is cochlear implants, Shearer said, which restore the ability to hear speech and music, but reduce the fidelity of the sound.
    Berkeley Lovelace Jr, NBC news, 23 Apr. 2026
  • But this should not be confused with fidelity or long-term commitment.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 28 Apr. 2026.

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