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 Even as the identity of the South evolves, and more young people lose certain traits that are identifiably southern, manners remain one of the region’s most distinctive and steadfast qualities. Annie Joy Williams, The Atlantic, 27 Aug. 2026 Boycott organizers undeterred Target boycott organizers in Minneapolis, including Nekima Levy Armstrong and community leaders Monique Cullars-Doty and Jaylani Hussein, remain steadfast in their divestment calls. Nancy Jiang, Fortune, 26 Aug. 2026 Lucas, Kozakiewicz stand by their positions In the wake of the contradictory filings, both Lucas and Kozakiewicz have remained steadfast in their positions regarding the audit. Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 24 Aug. 2026 Throughout its time open, Naija Wife Kitchen has been a steadfast community supporter, with Francis participating in area cookoffs and collaborations and even sponsoring meals for people in need during times of economic stress or downturn. Janae Williams, Oklahoman, 23 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • Then, as now, the cable system reached only the five boroughs of New York City, giving NY1 a loyal, concentrated audience of more than 1 million daily viewers in the capital of media and finance.
    Dade Hayes, Deadline, 11 Sep. 2026
  • Wings fan held family close to his heart Frank Doyle, 39, formerly of New Boston and Bloomfield Hills, was a loyal Detroit Red Wings fan.
    Sheryl Lee, Freep.com, 11 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • When Johannès was left off the EuroBasket squad in 2023, she was caught between the French national team’s staunch requirements and the WNBA’s prioritization rule, which required her to be present for opening day.
    Eden Laase, New York Times, 4 Sep. 2026
  • Johnson’s mayoral tenure has been marked by an inability to work with Springfield, a skill deficiency displayed by his staunch allies at the teachers union and the aligned board members on the CBOE.
    The Editorial Board, Chicago Tribune, 31 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • Austin Simmons had quite the introduction to the Mizzou faithful Thursday night.
    PJ Green September 4, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2026
  • However, their time together ended when Tamburello, a faithful, turned on Parks, a traitor, and voted to banish her in episode 10.
    Kathleen Perricone, Entertainment Weekly, 4 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Johnny Cash was a lot of things — devout Christian, country superstar, anti-Vietnam activist, variety show host.
    Elisabeth Garber-Paul, Rolling Stone, 8 Sep. 2026
  • The religious approach appealed to devout Catholics such as Velazquez, an immigrant from Mexico who spent three decades without status in the country, cutting hair from her home and cleaning houses when business was slow.
    Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 30 Aug. 2026
Adjective
  • There was skepticism about Vizzina, who threw only 105 passes in his first three years at Clemson and then was pushed by true freshman Tait Reynolds for the starting role in preseason camp.
    Antonio Morales, New York Times, 7 Sep. 2026
  • This is true for the franchise as a whole; RHOA is the city that turned Housewives into a sport that requires real skill and charisma.
    Ile-Ife Okantah, Vulture, 7 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • The film doesn’t canonize Heumann, instead showing her as dedicated leader who is also prickly, brash, and set in her ways.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 10 Sep. 2026
  • The retail concept also includes a dedicated Fragrance Gallery, where Outside In’s inaugural trio of eaux de parfum — called Earth After Rain, Light Language and Undiscovered Rose, priced at $260 each — will be displayed and available for purchase.
    Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2026
Adjective
  • Founded by Ralph Nader, the American Museum of Tort Law is the first and only museum of its kind devoted to educating the public about tort law.
    Stephen Underwood, Hartford Courant, 6 Sep. 2026
  • Jackie died last month after a weeks-long battle with a mysterious illness, setting off a torrent of heart-wrenching tributes and messages from her devoted fans who hailed from around the globe.
    Grace Toohey, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 12 Sep. 2026.

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