Synonym Chooser

How is the word loyalty distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of loyalty are allegiance, devotion, fealty, fidelity, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," 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 is allegiance a more appropriate choice than loyalty?

The meanings of allegiance and loyalty largely overlap; however, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for loyalty?

The words devotion and loyalty are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When might fealty be a better fit than loyalty?

In some situations, the words fealty and loyalty are roughly equivalent. However, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

In what contexts can fidelity take the place of loyalty?

The synonyms fidelity and loyalty are sometimes interchangeable, but fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

When can piety be used instead of loyalty?

The words piety and loyalty can be used in similar contexts, but piety stresses fidelity to obligations regarded as natural and fundamental.

filial piety

Examples of loyalty in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The film tells the story of an unbreakable bond between a sister and brother, forged through hardship and unwavering loyalty. Nancy Tartaglione, Deadline, 26 Sep. 2024 The loyalty program's Silver tier only requires 2,000 SQPS, but does not include the free Wi-Fi as a benefit. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 26 Sep. 2024 Her rivalry with Bow and fierce loyalty to Dre provided endless laughs and touching moments, particularly when showcasing her relationship with her grandchildren. Okla Jones, Essence, 24 Sep. 2024 The company boasts a loyalty membership base of 166 million members. Tipranks.com Staff, CNBC, 15 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for loyalty 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'loyalty.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Thesaurus Entries Near loyalty

Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 2 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyalty

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