loyal

adjective

ˈlȯi(-ə)l How to pronounce loyal (audio)
Definition of loyalnext
as in steadfast
firm in one's allegiance to someone or something we remain loyal to the ideals for which this organization stands

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Synonym Chooser

How is the word loyal distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of loyal are constant, faithful, resolute, staunch, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is constant a more appropriate choice than loyal?

The meanings of constant and loyal largely overlap; however, constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

When can faithful be used instead of loyal?

Although the words faithful and loyal have much in common, 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 would resolute be a good substitute for loyal?

The synonyms resolute and loyal are sometimes interchangeable, but resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is it sensible to use staunch instead of loyal?

While the synonyms staunch and loyal 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

Where would steadfast be a reasonable alternative to loyal?

While in some cases nearly identical to loyal, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 loyal Ultra-nationalists loyal to the regime have erected tents in a massive camp around the government buildings to protect the president from the demonstrators. —Sara Stridsberg september 15, Literary Hub, 15 Sep. 2025 In an interview with Us Weekly, Bell, 56, revealed how the idea for the fun poll was inspired by loyal fans' devotion to the TV supercouple. —Erin Clack, PEOPLE, 15 Sep. 2025 Each store will hold three drawings per day, giving loyal customers a chance to splurge on everything from bookcases to cozy textiles. —Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 15 Sep. 2025 Lee leads a swarth of loyal followers because of his honest reviews, and many agreed with his opinions. —Ella Gonzales, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 15 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyal
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyal
  1. steadfast
  2. staunch
  3. faithful
  4. devout
  5. true
  6. dedicated
  7. devoted
Adjective
  • As each one of our kids left for college and then moved out on their own, Chewie remained right there like our steadfast companion.
    — Joey Nolfi, Entertainment Weekly, 17 Sep. 2025
  • To Mike Hopkins, your steadfast leadership has been instrumental in shaping Prime Video’s new vision and success.
    — Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 17 Sep. 2025
Definition of steadfast
Adjective
  • Established in 1945 by advertising pioneer Albert Lasker and his wife, Mary, who was a staunch advocate for medical research, the awards highlight basic biological discoveries and advances that improve human health.
    — Michael T. Nietzel, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • Forget the critics and the staunch music execs, the fans are so ready!
    — Michael Nied, PEOPLE, 13 Sep. 2025
Definition of staunch
Adjective
  • Well done, good and faithful servant.
    — Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Sep. 2025
  • Be faithful in your religious duties.
    — Dave Smith, Fortune, 17 Sep. 2025
Definition of faithful
Adjective
  • Wicks’ modest-but-devoted flock includes devout church lady Martha Delacroix (Close), circumspect groundskeeper Samson Holt (Church), tightly-wound lawyer Vera Draven, Esq.
    — Ryan Gajewski, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2025
  • His devout love for these sneakers has also turned my grandma into a convert, and now the two happily sport their Kiziks all over Thailand, walking from food stall to food stall.
    — Alexandra Domrongchai, Travel + Leisure, 24 Aug. 2025
Definition of devout
Adjective
  • Slater’s first blast of the evening was a true wall-scraper in the top of the third, barely clearing the center-field fence to give the Giants an early 1-0 lead.
    — Justice delos Santos, Mercury News, 20 Sep. 2025
  • And remember, the point spread is designed to divide the wagers evenly, not be a true indicator of value.
    — Jack Magruder, Forbes.com, 20 Sep. 2025
Definition of true
Adjective
  • Surfing boomed, riding the waves to become not only a dedicated lifestyle, but a worldwide sporting industry.
    — J.D. Gallop, USA Today, 18 Sep. 2025
  • Additionally, the Meeting Zone offers yet another dedicated space for one-on-one networking.
    — Thomas Waller, Footwear News, 18 Sep. 2025
Definition of dedicated
Adjective
  • Ross is a devoted dad, frequently posting about his children on social media.
    — Samantha Stutsman, PEOPLE, 17 Sep. 2025
  • His legacy lives on through his children, art, filmmaking and devoted passion to conservation and the environment.
    — Hannah Parry Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Sep. 2025
Definition of devoted

Browse Nearby Words

low-spiritedly
loyal
loyalist
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loyal.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyal. Accessed 21 Sep. 2025.

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