steadfast 1 of 2

Definition of steadfastnext

steadfastness

2 of 2

noun

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
Adjective
Although Reagan remained outwardly steadfast, he was briefed that his approval ratings were beginning to sour because of Lebanon. Karim Sadjadpour, The Atlantic, 23 Mar. 2026 Ukraine's European allies have promised to maintain their steadfast support, but bickering over a major 90 billion euro ($106 billion) European Union loan to cover Kyiv's military and economic needs for two years has reflected the mounting challenges. ABC News, 20 Mar. 2026
Noun
Wallace, by implication, was concerned with patience, steadfastness, and tranquillity precisely because these virtues often eluded him in life. Hermione Hoby, New Yorker, 26 Jan. 2026 The prize for this steadfastness is playing the next Super Bowl halftime show. Craig Jenkins, Vulture, 2 Dec. 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • After the synagogue’s board voted to dismiss the cantor, scores of families who were loyal to him left.
    Eyal Press, New Yorker, 30 Mar. 2026
  • Special thanks to all of our loyal customers!
    Matt Schooley, CBS News, 29 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Mike Alexander, a frequent flier traveling to Orlando before heading to Indianapolis to watch the Michigan men's basketball team compete in the Final Four, praised the dedication of TSA officers.
    Hannah McIlree, CBS News, 30 Mar. 2026
  • The dedication event honored the Rancho Mission Viejo Rodeo’s long-standing support of The Shea Center and other south Orange County nonprofits through the RMV Rodeo proceeds.
    Magda Liszewska, Oc Register, 30 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • Kiswani has been a lightning rod for political controversy, even taking stands against Mayor Mamdani, the city’s first Muslim mayor and staunch proponent of Palestinian rights.
    Rocco Parascandola, New York Daily News, 27 Mar. 2026
  • Neither the United States nor Israel has accepted responsibility for the attack, which has come under staunch criticism from the United Nations and human rights groups.
    ABC News, ABC News, 27 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Katherine Fan is a travel journalist covering points and miles, loyalty programs, and credit card rewards.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 Apr. 2026
  • Shipley Donuts Shipley Donuts is offering a free four-pack of kolaches for loyalty members on April 1, according to a news release and a post on their official Facebook page.
    Greta Cross, USA Today, 1 Apr. 2026
Adjective
  • For faithful observers, the spring season is marked by Lent, a 40-day period of fasting and sacrifice that starts on Ash Wednesday.
    Laura Daniella Sepulveda, AZCentral.com, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Fishy Fishy, a longtime staple, stays faithful to what’s just come off the boat, while Catch of the Day turns a waterfront food truck into a lesson in simplicity done right.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • Your strength and your commitment told us that this is still America.
    Sarah D. Wire, USA Today, 29 Mar. 2026
  • Eco effort The resort recently partnered with WiseOceans, a global marine conservation and education company, to implement marine conservation programming and further the property’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable tourism.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 28 Mar. 2026
Adjective
  • For devout followers of BTS, or their colleagues in groups like Blackpink and Stray Kids, sales figures and stream counts are not neutral matters of fact.
    Mitch Therieau, New Yorker, 27 Mar. 2026
  • In addition to being a hysterical actor and writer, Wilson is a devout student of reality television and hosts the podcast Bitch Sesh about the Real Housewives franchise.
    Elizabeth Logan, Glamour, 24 Mar. 2026
Noun
  • The day started on the CPAC main stage with the pledge of allegiance, the national anthem and Arizona pastor Joshua Navarrete’s prayer asking for blessings for the president and Israel.
    Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 26 Mar. 2026
  • Virunga's forests are also believed to have been used as a hideout by fighters from the ADF militia, which has pledged allegiance to the Islamic State jihadist group.
    CBS News, CBS News, 26 Mar. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 2 Apr. 2026.

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