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 Exclusive experiences have become increasingly important to building loyalty among ultra-high-net-worth clients. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 7 July 2025 Chipotle meanwhile said that, on average, its loyalty members make up about 30% of sales each day. Josephine Rozzelle, CNBC, 7 July 2025 Tributes have poured in from across the hip-hop community as stars like Snoop Dogg, E-40, Xzibit, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, as well as his fans, remember his contributions, loyalty, and impact on the culture. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 7 July 2025 These videos tend to cause drama, test connections and challenge loyalties. Dina Kaur, AZCentral.com, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • The two men allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and had become radicalized over the internet.
    Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 27 June 2025
  • There’s also a triangle with Stella being in the center — Stanley and Blanche pulling at the allegiance of Stella.
    David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 June 2025
Noun
  • And the software vendor demonstrated a commitment to innovate.
    Steve Banker, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • The partnership was formed through equal equity commitments from WMG and Bain Capital.
    Jem Aswad, Variety, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • The Eight of Pentacles asks you to embrace discipline and dedication, and trust that your efforts will pay off in the long run.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
  • The 30-year-old expression showcases Glen Grant's craftsmanship at its finest, demonstrating the distillery's dedication to quality.
    Joseph V Micallef, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
Noun
  • Paul Libin’s devotion to both the artistry and the humanity of the theater made an indelible mark on Broadway and stages beyond.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 29 June 2025
  • Finally playing alongside her in Chicago, what stood out wasn’t just Parker’s talent, but her relentless devotion while juggling motherhood, a broadcasting career and a championship run.
    Anthony De Leon, Los Angeles Times, 29 June 2025
Noun
  • Of course, a gaming monitor would easily increase your graphical fidelity, budget allowing.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 24 June 2025
  • The company put out a remake of The Wind Waker in 2013 for the Wii U, which included — among other things — a bump in fidelity to glorious HD.
    Luke Winkie, Vulture, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyalty

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