Definition of steadfastnext

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 Trump has placed a steadfast focus on making the United States the global leader in AI. — Christine Valora, The Washington Examiner, 7 Sep. 2026 The cigar lounge was steadfast in Sundance Square throughout Covid and the ever-changing business scene downtown. — Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 4 Sep. 2026 By the end of the primary, Moulton had apologized for his November 2024 remarks — and Markey’s steadfast support for trans rights was part of his re-election argument. — David Weigel, semafor.com, 2 Sep. 2026 But the same steadfast pursuit that’s placed the attorney at the center of nearly every call for racial justice in the past decade has earned Crump more than a few detractors. — Ryan Young, CNN Money, 30 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • After both sides signed the Pretoria peace deal, a caretaker administration seen as loyal to Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed was installed in Mekelle, the Tigray capital.
    — SAMUEL GETACHEW, Arkansas Online, 25 Sep. 2026
  • The Sun, who now begin the process of relocating to Houston for next season, gave their loyal, vociferous and orange-clad fans a goodbye present, a 95-81 victory over the Toronto Tempo, just a little something to remember them by.
    — Dom Amore, Hartford Courant, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Booker has been a staunch opponent of the merger ever since it was announced this year.
    — David Zimmermann, The Washington Examiner, 24 Sep. 2026
  • Glass has been a staunch opponent of immigration and has supported the arrest of undocumented people living in Florida.
    — Devoun Cetoute, Miami Herald, 20 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • On the verge of its first win in Death Valley in 25 years, the Tar Heels instead came from 14 points ahead to lose, 28-20, against Clemson on a wet, weird and utterly disappointing day for the baby blue faithful.
    — Scott Fowler, Charlotte Observer, 20 Sep. 2026
  • Is there an argument to be made that John Schneider is doing an amazing job this year amid injuries, tough breaks and high expectations from the Jays faithful?
    — Mitch Bannon, New York Times, 9 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Veach was a devout believer in Jackson, who was undersized at 5-foot-9-ish, and passionately made the case.
    — Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 23 Sep. 2026
  • In the post, Henderson, a devout Christian, shared a video clip from Fox News, and quoted Scripture.
    — Armando Salguero OutKick, FOXNews.com, 18 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • In a world where true-crime shows of both the fictional and nonfictional variety run rampant on our screens, that’s probably not a bad corporate strategy.
    — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2026
  • In Cuba, for instance, the single format is dominant, and very few artists have dared to create a true concept album.
    — Jessica Roiz, Billboard, 25 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • This year’s World Focus lineup at TIFF will include Australia Spotlight, a dedicated showcase of Australian cinema mounted with the Australian Embassy in Japan.
    — Naman Ramachandran, Variety, 24 Sep. 2026
  • The partnership gives Denim Deal members direct access to URC’s Europe-wide repair expertise and services and a dedicated member discount.
    — Angela Velasquez, Footwear News, 24 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Secondo is dating a good-natured and devoted young American woman (Minnie Driver), while simultaneously having an affair with Pascal’s Italian girlfriend and hostess (Isabella Rossellini).
    — Frank Scheck, HollywoodReporter, 20 Sep. 2026
  • The cult fashion house has a devoted following among Gen Z and fans of alternative fashion and pop culture, including anime enthusiasts familiar with Westwood’s distinctive Orb logo.
    — Miami Herald, Miami Herald, 19 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 26 Sep. 2026.

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