Synonym Chooser

How is the word wholehearted distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of wholehearted are heartfelt, hearty, sincere, and unfeigned. While all these words mean "genuine in feeling," wholehearted suggests sincerity and earnest devotion without reservation or misgiving.

promised our wholehearted support

In what contexts can heartfelt take the place of wholehearted?

The meanings of heartfelt and wholehearted largely overlap; however, heartfelt suggests depth of genuine feeling outwardly expressed.

expresses our heartfelt gratitude

When would hearty be a good substitute for wholehearted?

In some situations, the words hearty and wholehearted are roughly equivalent. However, hearty suggests honesty, warmth, and exuberance in displaying feeling.

received a hearty welcome

Where would sincere be a reasonable alternative to wholehearted?

Although the words sincere and wholehearted have much in common, sincere stresses absence of hypocrisy, feigning, or any falsifying embellishment or exaggeration.

a sincere apology

When can unfeigned be used instead of wholehearted?

The words unfeigned and wholehearted can be used in similar contexts, but unfeigned stresses spontaneity and absence of pretense.

her unfeigned delight at receiving the award

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 wholehearted Leif’s wholehearted but clear-eyed devotion to Sigrid becomes our most sensitive barometer for understanding what this mission is doing to her soul. Angie Han, The Hollywood Reporter, 3 Sep. 2019 Instead, the United States should signal its wholehearted commitment to the integrity of the Kenyan electoral process and the rule of law by supporting a swift judicial review of any allegations of irregularity. Bronwyn Bruton, Foreign Affairs, 3 Mar. 2013 Visitors expecting the grandeur of a luminary have been surprised by the house’s relatively modest size and its wholehearted embrace of the trappings of popular culture. Michael T. Bertrand, The Conversation, 5 June 2024 Hollywood’s wholehearted embrace of Mexico’s Alfonso Cuarón, Alejandro González Iñárritu and Guillermo del Toro has earned them enviable influential standing, five best directing Oscars in the last 10 years alone and a nickname — the Three Amigos. Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 12 Sep. 2023 See All Example Sentences for wholehearted
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wholehearted
Adjective
  • Florida Republicans are enthusiastic about Alligator Alcatraz.
    Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 24 July 2025
  • While the race will be held at the Naval Base Coronado, the city is enthusiastic to host a Nascar weekend.
    Joseph Wolkin, Forbes.com, 23 July 2025
Adjective
  • Mister Tramps This Research Boulevard bar is known for its early morning crowds, fervent cheering, and camaraderie among Tottenham Hotspur FC supporters.
    Ana Gutierrez, Austin American Statesman, 17 July 2025
  • The Auburn Tigers men’s basketball head coach even received the support of Basketball Hall of Famer Charles Barkley, despite Pearl’s fervent support for President Donald Trump.
    Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 17 July 2025
Adjective
  • Steenburgen is also a passionate advocate for increasing funding for the arts in schools across the country.
    Scott Feinberg, HollywoodReporter, 30 July 2025
  • His parents and siblings served in the military, but Bradley, who wouldn't qualify to serve because of severe vision impairment in his right eye, was passionate about helping his community in a different way.
    Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 30 July 2025
Adjective
  • By the end, even the most ardent England supporter had to have some sympathy with Italy.
    Michael Cox, New York Times, 23 July 2025
  • Marjorie Taylor Greene—Georgia’s 14th District The firebrand Republican has been one of Trump’s most ardent supporters on Capitol Hill since her election in 2021.
    Nik Popli, Time, 21 July 2025
Adjective
  • In 2025, personal touch and human logic are vital for combating the fatigue often associated with a lack of genuine connection.
    Rolling Stone Culture Council, Rolling Stone, 29 July 2025
  • Partnering with causes that align with his values can also help shift the narrative from scandal to substance, but crucially, these efforts must appear genuine and authentic.
    Megan Cartwright, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Wholehearted.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wholehearted. Accessed 5 Aug. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on wholehearted

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