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

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 loyalty Exclusive experiences have become increasingly important to building loyalty among ultra-high-net-worth clients. Rhonda Richford, Footwear News, 7 July 2025 Chipotle meanwhile said that, on average, its loyalty members make up about 30% of sales each day. Josephine Rozzelle, CNBC, 7 July 2025 Tributes have poured in from across the hip-hop community as stars like Snoop Dogg, E-40, Xzibit, and Bone Thugs-N-Harmony, as well as his fans, remember his contributions, loyalty, and impact on the culture. Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 7 July 2025 These videos tend to cause drama, test connections and challenge loyalties. Dina Kaur, AZCentral.com, 3 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • If anything, the blue-and-red Cubs hat made his allegiance clear.
    Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 9 July 2025
  • Patriotic education does not mean propaganda to produce blind allegiance to the government.
    Linda McMahon, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 July 2025
Noun
  • Yes, Trump disdains core elements of U.S. globalism, from the international trade system America established to its promotion of democratic values and its defense commitments around the world.
    Hal Brands, Twin Cities, 13 July 2025
  • The State Department did not respond to requests by ABC News for the current data on its assistance commitments to Sudan after foreign aid freezes and layoffs.
    Chris Boccia, ABC News, 13 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
  • Wealth is a draw for the rich and poor alike, a capitalist paradise rooted in fervent belief and devotion.
    Emi Eleode, Time, 14 July 2025
  • The crackdown often intensifies around sensitive dates – especially his birthday – but devotion to the spiritual leader has quietly endured.
    Simone McCarthy, CNN Money, 3 July 2025
Noun
  • Of course, a gaming monitor would easily increase your graphical fidelity, budget allowing.
    Jade Chung-Lee, PC Magazine, 24 June 2025
  • The company put out a remake of The Wind Waker in 2013 for the Wii U, which included — among other things — a bump in fidelity to glorious HD.
    Luke Winkie, Vulture, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 20 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyalty

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