Synonym Chooser

How is the word fidelity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fidelity are allegiance, devotion, fealty, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fidelity?

The words allegiance and fidelity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for fidelity?

While the synonyms devotion and fidelity are close in meaning, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When can fealty be used instead of fidelity?

The meanings of fealty and fidelity largely overlap; however, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When might loyalty be a better fit than fidelity?

The words loyalty and fidelity can be used in similar contexts, but loyalty implies a faithfulness that is steadfast in the face of any temptation to renounce, desert, or betray.

valued the loyalty of his friends

When could piety be used to replace fidelity?

The synonyms piety and fidelity are sometimes interchangeable, but piety stresses fidelity to obligations regarded as natural and fundamental.

filial piety

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 fidelity The origins of the role actually have their roots in ancient Egypt, where a young boy would be enlisted to carry rings to a couple as a symbol of love, fidelity, and fertility. Shelby Wax, Vogue, 10 July 2025 The 6–3 opinion by Justice Samuel Alito is yet another of the fruits of the Court’s conservative majority, its fidelity to the Constitution, and its fundamental common sense. The Editors, National Review, 28 June 2025 These gothic elements enhance the book’s central preoccupations of trust, fidelity, and the difficulty of fully knowing another person—or oneself. The New Yorker, New Yorker, 23 June 2025 Of course, a gaming monitor would easily increase your graphical fidelity, budget allowing. Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 24 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for fidelity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fidelity
Noun
  • Allies of the president have mocked Dooley’s lack of experience, questioned his Republican credentials, and accused Kemp of putting personal loyalty above party unity in a must-win race.
    Samantha-Jo Roth, The Washington Examiner, 1 Aug. 2025
  • Someone’s jealousy, loyalty or honesty could be tested at this time.
    Valerie Mesa, People.com, 1 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The moment comes on the heels of Clark’s now-viral Nike ad comment aimed at Kelsey Plum, a subtle but effective reminder of just how visible brand allegiances have become across the league.
    Maggie Clancy, Footwear News, 23 July 2025
  • Lunn’s brand of reform disrupted the corrupt and complacent, empowered talent without regard to political allegiance, and relentlessly focused on the common good of his constituents.
    Time, Time, 22 July 2025
Noun
  • The approval came after Skydance and its investment partner, RedBird Capital, assured the FCC of their commitment to unbiased journalism that represents diverse viewpoints.
    USA Today, USA Today, 25 July 2025
  • The brothers convinced Bollea to try wrestling and connected him with trainer Hiro Matsuda, who according to lore broke Bollea’s leg in an apparent test of his commitment to the sport.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 25 July 2025
Noun
  • Soliman's case has attracted wide attention since about 75 supporters held a press conference about his case just after his arrest: Local parents and medical professionals have been writing the immigration court, extolling his dedication to sick children.
    Patricia Gallagher Newberry, The Enquirer, 14 July 2025
  • Duckworth encourages readers to cultivate long-term dedication to their goals, overcome setbacks, and maintain a growth mindset to achieve excellence.
    Jann E. Freed, Forbes.com, 14 July 2025
Noun
  • His efforts, Suzuki added, required utter and total devotion.
    Tyler Kepner, New York Times, 28 July 2025
  • But the obvious calculation behind this move illustrated the desperation of so many anonymous black showbiz performers (such as those who were paid to promote the Kamala Harris campaign) who eagerly demonstrate an unshakeable loyalty to the post-FDR legacy of Democratic Party devotion.
    Armond White, National Review, 25 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fidelity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fidelity. Accessed 6 Aug. 2025.

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