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 Former Nuggets coach Michael Malone was a steadfast lobbyist for his center, arguing that Jokic’s three previous MVPs and subsequent voter fatigue were playing a role in the narrative throughout this season. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 21 May 2025 Beyond a fashion context, the brand has amassed a steadfast, non-fashion fanbase who wear theirs for actual hikes rather than around SoHo. Alice Cary, Vogue, 19 May 2025 These happy few have resisted the pressure to expand Medicaid, maintaining a steadfast commitment to prioritizing vulnerable populations. Jennifer Butler, National Review, 18 May 2025 At the shoot, even as Lyonne — who also serves as an executive producer, director, and writer on Poker Face — ups the ante of each take with her signature improv chops, the dogs remain steadfast, focusing on their handlers (and okay, yes, also the treats) to nail every shot. EW.com, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • His close friends and colleagues often described him as loyal, deeply thoughtful, and warm in his own way—just not overly expressive.
    Julio Cesar Valdera Morales, MSNBC Newsweek, 31 May 2025
  • The friends not keen on competing become our valiant team of producers — recording content and posting updates live for our loyal Instagram fanbase (almost 200 followers).
    Mia Venkat, NPR, 31 May 2025
Adjective
  • Just two awards away from obtaining EGOT status, for over three decades, Foxx has maintained a repertoire of not only staunch professionalism, but also stands as a benefactor of Black male representation in entertainment.
    Ime Ekpo, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
  • From the administration’s staunch anti-diversity stance and the military’s push to oust transgender servicemembers, to a looming US Supreme Court ruling that could upend health care for millions of LGBTQ Americans, the second Trump administration has ushered in a period of uncertainty and fear.
    Chelsea Bailey, CNN Money, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • No one needs a live-action remake, but ones this faithful and sweet are not the problem.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 9 June 2025
  • Both faithful and former members have been posting online about the change, and some of the comments have been angry.
    Lauren Jackson, New York Times, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • Has there been a negative response from devout Catholics to you guys at all? Trad Caths are crazy.
    Jason P. Frank, Vulture, 9 May 2025
  • The record that Booker broke belonged to the late South Carolina Sen. Strom Thurmond, a devout segregationist, who spoke for 24 hours and 18 minutes in opposition to the Civil Rights Act of 1957.
    Leonard Greene, New York Daily News, 6 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Mosquitoes are a true scourge, responsible for up to one million human deaths per year.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • The film also stars Yul Vazquez, Ashlie Atkinson and Spencer Watson. Co-written by Greengrass and Brad Inglesby, The Lost Bus is inspired by true events featured in Lizzie Johnson’s 2021 book Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire.
    Glenn Garner, Deadline, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • The researchers also advocate for dedicated missions to hunt for Venusian asteroids.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 7 June 2025
  • Led by Ralph DeLuca, who joined the auction house in March 2025, the new department will run dedicated multi-auction events twice a year.
    Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • To the most devoted Swift fans, this was like asking if Columbus Day is the same as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
    Tyler Foggatt, New Yorker, 8 June 2025
  • On the acting side, Pancholy has had a standout career with memorable roles like Sanjay on Weeds (2005–2012), Jonathan (Jack Donaghy's devoted assistant) on 30 Rock (2006–2012), and Arnav on Only Murders in the Building (2021).
    EW.com, EW.com, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • The win was the fifth in a row for Detroit and 20th in its last 28 games, and raised its division-leading record to 35-21, good for a .655 winning percentage.
    Jon Vankin, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 June 2025
  • Dealing with An Ex Dear Dealing: The last option – not addressing it – is your best bet.
    R. Eric Thomas, Chicago Tribune, 31 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 13 Jun. 2025.

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