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 Bailey, a staunch conservative, dramatically increased his statewide profile in 2020 as a frequent critic of Pritzker’s approach to the coronavirus pandemic — including refusing to wear a mask during legislative sessions. CNN Money, 23 Oct. 2025 Even staunch human-rights defenders have drunk Beijing’s Kool-Aid. Charlie Campbell, Time, 23 Oct. 2025 Davis, a staunch libertarian, is one of the company’s steadfast defenders. David Peisner, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025 This powerhouse trio has a staunch policy of not talking to media about their business, but that hasn’t prevented glowing word of their impressive reputation from making the rounds through Hollywood. Trey Williams, HollywoodReporter, 22 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for staunch
Recent Examples of Synonyms for staunch
Adjective
  • The actor, 76, has been a devout Buddhist for over 40 years.
    Gillian Telling, PEOPLE, 20 Oct. 2025
  • Many Latin acts, particularly from Puerto Rico, are devout Christians but don’t share their beliefs in their music.
    Leila Cobo, Billboard, 15 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • Davis, a staunch libertarian, is one of the company’s steadfast defenders.
    David Peisner, Rolling Stone, 23 Oct. 2025
  • Odinga, who served prison time for his steadfast support for democracy and political reform, played a critical role in replacing a colonial-era charter with the country’s current constitution, which imposes clearer limits on presidential power.
    Ian Bremmer, Time, 22 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • In my experience, this is especially true in the lonely hours of the night while struggling with chronic pain.
    Joni Eareckson Tada, MSNBC Newsweek, 25 Oct. 2025
  • For most Galatasaray supporters, domestic titles were never the true measure of success; Europe was.
    The Athletic UK Staff, New York Times, 25 Oct. 2025
Adjective
  • The ghoulish pet is ever-present in the movie, portraying itself as a friendly and loyal companion to Jack in his journeys between realms.
    Lisa Stardust, PEOPLE, 28 Oct. 2025
  • This milestone honors both the brand’s journey and its loyal following worldwide.
    Essence, Essence, 28 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Staunch.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/staunch. Accessed 30 Oct. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on staunch

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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