Synonym Chooser

How is the word steadfast distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of steadfast are constant, faithful, loyal, resolute, and staunch. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

When is it sensible to use constant instead of steadfast?

The synonyms constant and steadfast are sometimes interchangeable, but constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

In what contexts can faithful take the place of steadfast?

The words faithful and steadfast are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 could loyal be used to replace steadfast?

While in some cases nearly identical to steadfast, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is resolute a more appropriate choice than steadfast?

The meanings of resolute and steadfast largely overlap; however, resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When might staunch be a better fit than steadfast?

While the synonyms staunch and steadfast are close in meaning, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

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 steadfast In a show otherwise marked by steadfast monogamy and occasional affairs, the monumental feeling of a first major relationship is a breath of fresh air. Alison Herman, Variety, 20 June 2025 As the state braces for possible future floods, Travis' family is honoring him as a steadfast brother and loving son. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 19 June 2025 By understanding the needs of businesses, financial institutions can realign efforts to meet businesses’ needs while remaining steadfast in addressing organizational goals and objectives. Reed Luhtanen, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 Despite setbacks — including talks of a walkout, which stalled when leadership got wind of the strategic move — the cheerleaders remained steadfast in their pursuit. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • After spending years in Mercedes's developmental program, Russell is committed to remaining loyal, but time will tell if the team reciprocates his faith.
    Nelson Espinal, MSNBC Newsweek, 4 July 2025
  • He’s still got the voice, though a bit gravely, and a very loyal fan base.
    jsonline.com, jsonline.com, 4 July 2025
Adjective
  • Their starting pitching has remained staunch, and closer Carlos Estévez through Thursday was tied for the MLB lead in saves with 22.
    Vahe Gregorian, Kansas City Star, 27 June 2025
  • Still, even some staunch supporters of Netanyahu and Trump seemed a bit unnerved.
    Natalie Melzer, Los Angeles Times, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • The overall decor is faithful to the history of the house, which was built in 1880 by architect Pierre Kemp for textile industrialist Eugène Kerckhoff.
    Joelle Diderich, Footwear News, 28 June 2025
  • The Hollywood outpost stays faithful to the original New York blueprint, with two sets nightly at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m., table service throughout, and a booking philosophy that pairs legends with left-field collaborators.
    David Hochman, Forbes.com, 26 June 2025
Adjective
  • Vance Boelter, the suspect in the attack, has been described as a devout Christian who has attended President Donald Trump’s campaign rallies, according to The Associated Press.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 18 June 2025
  • Over the weekend, Elon Musk and others tried to paint the shooter as a violent leftist, but friends and former colleagues described Vance Boelter, who is charged in the killing, as a devout Christian and political conservative.
    Danielle Chemtob, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025
Adjective
  • Be open to what needs to be dismantled in order to build something stronger and more aligned with your true path in the future.
    Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 July 2025
  • What’s the difference between something being emotionally true and factually true, and what should be valued more?
    Lexy Perez, HollywoodReporter, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • The new keyboard also features a programmable aluminum roller and dedicated macro keys for streamlined gaming control.
    Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025
  • Newsweek is about to take the next step in its dedicated daily coverage of sports betting with a brand-new weekly newsletter specifically for sports bettors.
    Tyler Everett, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025
Adjective
  • After swindling his way into loads of cash, Yoshii gradually attempts to disconnect from humanity, moving out of the city, shunning his girlfriend, and entrusting duties to his new, devoted assistant.
    Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 1 July 2025
  • If his most devoted followers saw repentance, more saw a performative bid to retain his career.
    Greg Evans, Deadline, 1 July 2025
Adjective
  • After all, how often would Canada's biggest hockey market have a chance to acquire Canada's best player?
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 6 July 2025
  • The Chiefs will finally open training camp with their best receivers having a foundation.
    Sam McDowell July 6, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

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