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 Their steadfast loyalty to Danny and Nia has also left some members of the group confused by their unwavering support. Deirdre Durkan, PEOPLE, 27 May 2026 The civilization of love will not arise from a single or spectacular gesture, but from the sum total of small and steadfast acts of fidelity that serve as a bulwark against dehumanization. Siladitya Ray, Forbes.com, 25 May 2026 The definitive edition arrived last year via Third Man, steadfast champions of deserving Detroit obscurities. Grayson Haver Currin, Pitchfork, 23 May 2026 Green is steadfast in his commitment to the Indy 500. Luke Smith, New York Times, 21 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • This is an island that attracts a fashionable globetrotting crowd, and loyal St Regis fans—arguably one in the same.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 1 June 2026
  • Tesla Rivian already has a core of passionate, loyal owners but Tesla has a ten-year head start.
    Brooke Crothers, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026
Adjective
  • Palace’s defence, so staunch for much of this campaign, snuffed out any serious danger.
    Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 28 May 2026
  • But the Veterans Park Neighborhood Association, staunch opponents of the shelter location, went to court in December over the city’s previous decision.
    Idaho Statesman, Idaho Statesman, 28 May 2026
Adjective
  • The announcement of Dean and Allie as the couple in Season Two is the latest example of Off Campus’ showrunner and development team making the show a distinct offering rather than a faithful blow-by-blow of the novels.
    CT Jones, Rolling Stone, 28 May 2026
  • Of course faithful musical buffs will hyper-focus on what’s been change… and honestly, that’s part of the fun, right?
    Chris Willman, Variety, 27 May 2026
Adjective
  • His Baptist parents raised him in the church, and his mother was particularly devout.
    Rachel Cole, Encyclopedia Britannica, 19 May 2026
  • As devout Sunni Muslims, many Uyghur fighters sympathized with the largely Sunni Islamist militias, especially those that became part of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham, an alliance of militia groups, including Jabhat al-Nusra, which until 2016 was affiliated with al-Qaida.
    Emily Feng, NPR, 17 May 2026
Adjective
  • There are past precedents for how that is not true.
    Brian Moylan, Vulture, 3 June 2026
  • With its overall Life in Balance philosophy, Miraval Resorts and Spas has led the way in recognizing just how valuable and restorative a true connection with other humans and the natural environment can be.
    Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 3 June 2026
Adjective
  • Texas Monthly and other publications have long employed dedicated barbecue writers who document pitmasters, smokehouses and regional traditions with the same seriousness often given to fine dining.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 29 May 2026
  • You’ll be served an aperitif, a charcuterie platter, local Swiss wine, coffee, and water, while a dedicated concierge—who will accompany you throughout the journey—shares historical insights for a more immersive experience.
    Lauren David, Travel + Leisure, 29 May 2026
Adjective
  • Friends also described Julian as a devoted father who centered much of his life around his three children.
    Angelique Brenes, PEOPLE, 3 June 2026
  • In a world where people no longer dress up for dinner, guests here still throw on silk and pearls for lemon blinis and mahi-mahi caught by devoted fisherman Dennis ‘Barker’ Bovell—a fixture for the past four decades.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 4 Jun. 2026.

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