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 There’s also Margo’s roommate Susie (Thaddea Graham), a delightfully nerdy cosplayer who turns out to be the most steadfast support-giver in Margo’s life. Literary Hub, 28 May 2026 Alan Clendenin is a steadfast supporter of the deal. Nicolas Villamil, The Orlando Sentinel, 28 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 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • The brand stuck to its DTC roots though, insisting on launching new products online first to get feedback from loyal customers.
    Amelia Lucas,Melissa Repko, CNBC, 7 June 2026
  • Another approach to cutting down the workforce is voluntary layoffs, a move that rewards loyal workers.
    Jacqueline Munis, Fortune, 6 June 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
  • Karl-Anthony Towns was hit with two fouls in just the first 62 seconds of the game, one which the Knicks faithful were not happy with.
    Ryan Morik, FOXNews.com, 11 June 2026
  • The trip, though, has underscored how the country of 50 million people, which experienced a religious crisis after its 20th-century dictatorship ended, still has plenty of faithful Catholics who have turned out in droves to welcome the American pope.
    ABC News, ABC News, 10 June 2026
Adjective
  • She was controlled, socially formidable, devout, exacting and sometimes devastatingly funny.
    ABC News, ABC News, 6 June 2026
  • Our father was a devout Christian and a devoted, loving, family man.
    Natasha Dye, PEOPLE, 5 June 2026
Adjective
  • Attleboro managed a two-out walk but Salerno limited any true damage in the top of the eighth.
    Jack Murray, Boston Herald, 10 June 2026
  • Huang pitched herself as the true progressive in the race, saying Raman had drifted too close to the middle during her time on council.
    Noah Goldberg, Los Angeles Times, 9 June 2026
Adjective
  • Starting with Thursday’s kickoff match between Mexico and South Africa, Bambina’s will host eight dedicated watch parties.
    Camila Pedrosa, Sacbee.com, 11 June 2026
  • On an April call with investors, Musk said the company is currently using existing charging stations and service centers for its robotaxis, but will eventually need dedicated locations.
    Bloomberg, Mercury News, 11 June 2026
Adjective
  • Edgar Ramírez will play Miguel Contreras, a devoted family man and loyal DEA second-in-command torn between duty and guilt.
    Justin Kroll, Deadline, 10 June 2026
  • Tarras showed videos in which colleagues described Herek as a devoted father who has volunteered as a coach in youth and masters swimming programs in Broward County.
    Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 10 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 13 Jun. 2026.

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