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 Fennell teases out the tricky evolution of the characters’ deep bond, from steadfast sibling affection toward a combative, quasi-incestuous desire. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 9 Feb. 2026 The band remained steadfast in the commitment despite many other acts bowing out. Bethy Squires, Vulture, 8 Feb. 2026 Amid her mother’s disappearance, Savannah Guthrie's steadfast faith has been on display. Erin Jensen, USA Today, 7 Feb. 2026 The steadfast pushback against the administration might appear on the surface to be an encouraging trend, given the complaisance of the Republican majorities in Congress and weak-kneed capitulation to Trump by leaders of institutions such as universities and major corporations. Los Angeles Times, 5 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • Middleton has been loyal to the iconic Le Pliage Original canvas bag since at least 2005.
    Alyssa Morin, InStyle, 15 Feb. 2026
  • They’re loved for being protective and loyal, and taking a romantic leap of faith could bring unexpected rewards.
    Annabel Gat, Vogue, 14 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • That staunch support takes on extra significance in a hyper-competitive country that often only rewards top winners and punishes those who fall short.
    Jessie Yeung, CNN Money, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Known for being a staunch player advocate and for his sometimes combative demeanor, Meyer was unanimously elected in a vote of major- and minor-league players held during a video meeting Wednesday afternoon.
    Evan Drellich, New York Times, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • It has been billed as a faithful adaptation, expanding each of Rowling's seven books into individual seasons.
    Mekishana Pierre, Entertainment Weekly, 19 Feb. 2026
  • She's always been a faithful fan of fashion.
    Kevin Huynh, InStyle, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The siblings believed that their mother, a devout Christian, felt them, too.
    Paige Williams, New Yorker, 14 Feb. 2026
  • Mustafa’s 2024 debut album, Dunya—a folk memoir about growing up as a devout Muslim in a violent Toronto housing project as the son of immigrants from Sudan—was wildly acclaimed.
    Spencer Kornhaber, The Atlantic, 11 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • But despite his characteristic command and media savvy, Jackson’s campaign never gained true momentum, scoring mixed results.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 18 Feb. 2026
  • This, however, is not true of US Skimo, which has been rapidly professionalizing as a governing body since the sport was announced as a future Winter Olympic event back in 2021.
    Ben Church, CNN Money, 18 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • Contrast that with an electric pickup built by a dedicated EV startup, like the Rivian R1T, which launched with just 17.
    Byron Hurd, The Drive, 19 Feb. 2026
  • Another former student, Lahlou Aliouate, similarly described a dedicated instructor with a professional demeanor.
    ABC News, ABC News, 19 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • As this increasingly audacious killer develops a devoted following among the city’s powerless, Bishop becomes convinced these murders connect back to SF’s most powerful man, his own father, Lincoln Graves (Malkovich).
    Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 18 Feb. 2026
  • But among all denim wearers, there’s a devoted subculture that not only enjoys wearing denim, but also collects, documents and treats the textile as a reflection of their personal history.
    Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 18 Feb. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 22 Feb. 2026.

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