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 While information about Chicano culture has increased, those who are steadfast enough to withstand the stares and learn about the underlying values are the ones who last, Thao said. Stephanie Yang, Los Angeles Times, 27 May 2025 Frank Lloyd Wright, the Fashion Muse From collaborations with Kith to partnerships with Maya Brenner, America’s favorite architect remains a steadfast source of inspiration for designers of all kinds 6. Carrie Hojnicki, Architectural Digest, 21 May 2025 State senators voted overwhelmingly Wednesday night for a controversial bill seeking oversight of artificial intelligence, but Gov. Ned Lamont remains steadfast in avoiding slowing down one of the world’s developing industries. Christopher Keating, Hartford Courant, 15 May 2025 Alternatively, seersucker remains a steadfast warm-weather favorite—especially for those who appreciate a touch of New England preppiness. Brett F. Braley-Palko, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • In the nearly 20 years since the show's conclusion, the loyal fanbase has pushed for a revival, and Cranston was working behind the scenes to deliver just that.
    Madison E. Goldberg, People.com, 13 June 2025
  • While loyal fans welcomed the album as a continuation of a legendary legacy, many deemed it a lackluster effort from an artist once considered untouchable in Hip-Hop.
    Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 12 June 2025
Adjective
  • From the administration’s staunch anti-diversity stance and the military’s push to oust transgender servicemembers, to a looming US Supreme Court ruling that could upend health care for millions of LGBTQ Americans, the second Trump administration has ushered in a period of uncertainty and fear.
    Chelsea Bailey, CNN Money, 7 June 2025
  • Just two awards away from obtaining EGOT status, for over three decades, Foxx has maintained a repertoire of not only staunch professionalism, but also stands as a benefactor of Black male representation in entertainment.
    Ime Ekpo, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • No one needs a live-action remake, but ones this faithful and sweet are not the problem.
    Kate Erbland, IndieWire, 9 June 2025
  • Both faithful and former members have been posting online about the change, and some of the comments have been angry.
    Lauren Jackson, New York Times, 29 May 2025
Adjective
  • Bure became a devout Christian at the age of 12 and has remained outspoken about her religious beliefs and conservative political opinions.
    Ryan Coleman, EW.com, 11 June 2025
  • One such soul was Madeline Buol (1902–1986), a devout Catholic and beauty shop owner living in Dubuque, IA, right across the Mississippi River from Dickeyville.
    Chadd Scott, Forbes.com, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • Mosquitoes are a true scourge, responsible for up to one million human deaths per year.
    Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 8 June 2025
  • The film also stars Yul Vazquez, Ashlie Atkinson and Spencer Watson. Co-written by Greengrass and Brad Inglesby, The Lost Bus is inspired by true events featured in Lizzie Johnson’s 2021 book Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire.
    Glenn Garner, Deadline, 8 June 2025
Adjective
  • The researchers also advocate for dedicated missions to hunt for Venusian asteroids.
    Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 7 June 2025
  • Compression refers to wrapping an elastic bandage to compress and reduce swelling in a dedicated area, like the ankle or calf.
    Novant Health, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2025
Adjective
  • To the most devoted Swift fans, this was like asking if Columbus Day is the same as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
    Tyler Foggatt, New Yorker, 8 June 2025
  • On the acting side, Pancholy has had a standout career with memorable roles like Sanjay on Weeds (2005–2012), Jonathan (Jack Donaghy's devoted assistant) on 30 Rock (2006–2012), and Arnav on Only Murders in the Building (2021).
    EW.com, EW.com, 7 June 2025
Adjective
  • Then, Bennett, the Panthers best player these playoffs, took a tripping penalty behind the play coming out of the offensive zone.
    Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 13 June 2025
  • As good as Trachtenberg is at keeping secrets, this particular one seems unlikely.
    Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 13 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 18 Jun. 2025.

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