Word of the Day

: July 22, 2026

stalwart

adjective STAWL-wert

What It Means

Stalwart is a formal word used to describe someone or something that is very loyal and dedicated or that is physically or mentally strong.

// He was a stalwart civil rights supporter throughout his political career.

// The football team's stalwart defense only gave up a single field goal in the second half.

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stalwart in Context

"Arbour is a stalwart defender of women's rights, having witnessed the struggle for equality during Quebec's Quiet Revolution." — Allison Hanes, The Montreal Gazette, 6 May 2026

Did You Know?

Stalwart is a word with ancient roots that has lent its stalwart service to the English language for centuries. Coming, via Middle English, from the Old English word stǣlwierthe, meaning "serviceable," stalwart describes people or things that are marked by outstanding strength and vigor of body, mind, or spirit, as revealed by traits such as loyalty and steadfastness, capability and dependability, or physical robustness. Old oak trees, for example, have long been described as stalwart for their imposing stature and endurance. A baseball team's closing pitcher may be deemed stalwart by showing mental fortitude in consistently striking out opposing batters in high-pressure situations. And a stalwart lover is one who, through thick and thin, is never gonna give you up, never gonna let you down, never gonna run around and hurt you.