variants also stanch

Synonym Chooser

How is the word staunch distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of staunch are constant, faithful, loyal, resolute, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When can constant be used instead of staunch?

The words constant and staunch can be used in similar contexts, but constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

When could faithful be used to replace staunch?

The synonyms faithful and staunch are sometimes interchangeable, but faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

When would loyal be a good substitute for staunch?

Although the words loyal and staunch have much in common, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is it sensible to use resolute instead of staunch?

While the synonyms resolute and staunch are close in meaning, resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is steadfast a more appropriate choice than staunch?

While in some cases nearly identical to staunch, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 staunch The comments broke with Trump and his cohort’s staunch opposition to FEMA. Anna Giaritelli, The Washington Examiner, 7 May 2025 The Pistons ran a Cunningham-Duren pick-and-roll at OG Anunoby and McBride, two staunch defenders who guarded it well. Fred Katz, New York Times, 30 Apr. 2025 Timbaland has been a staunch advocate for A.I. and technology use in music, and also a longtime fan of Nachum’s. Mackenzie Cummings-Grady, Billboard, 28 Apr. 2025 Initially introduced in the 1980s in service of building a superior urban running shoe, the color continues to embody New Balance’s staunch dedication to craft, quality, and fearless independence, in every field. Robyn Mowatt, Essence, 3 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for staunch
Recent Examples of Synonyms for staunch
Adjective
  • In 2023, Caviezel, a devout Catholic, starred in mega box office breakout Sound Of Freedom, produced by faith-friendly Angel Studios, and is next due to reprise his role as Jesus in Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection.
    Andreas Wiseman, Deadline, 17 May 2025
  • Local family members and friends know the new pontiff as a lifelong devout Catholic and former altar boy who makes frequent trips back home to the Chicago area, cheering for the White Sox and enjoying a slice of Aurelio’s pizza when back in town.
    Angie Leventis Lourgos, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025
Adjective
  • Despite Aspinall winning the interim crown, UFC CEO Dana White remained steadfast in saying that Jones vs. Miocic was the fight to make.
    Trent Reinsmith, Forbes.com, 20 May 2025
  • Over the years, the Biden family has confronted unimaginable adversity with grace and steadfast perseverance.
    Natalie Oganesyan, Deadline, 18 May 2025
Adjective
  • Brands can now measure interactions that happen across different channels and touchpoints, such as call center conversions or in-store actions—creating a true omnichannel view.
    Heidi Bullock, Forbes.com, 15 May 2025
  • The Johnny King Buck In 2006, Wisconsin deer hunter Johnny King shot what some folks believe is the true world-record typical whitetail.
    Alex Robinson, Outdoor Life, 15 May 2025
Adjective
  • Some beauty companies, particularly those that offer a wide variety of cosmetics products, could see strong gains as U.S.-China trade worries ease and loyal consumers seek out their essentials on a budget.
    Pia Singh, CNBC, 19 May 2025
  • Season 20 winner Noah Thompson found success in country music, performing alongside genre staples and growing a loyal fanbase.
    Tahar Rajab, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 May 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

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

More from Merriam-Webster on staunch

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!