Definition of loyaltynext

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 The carrier currently offers free inflight Wi-Fi for members of its Rapid Rewards loyalty program, provides complimentary snacks, and offers more than a dozen different complimentary beverages. Michael Cappetta, Travel + Leisure, 6 May 2026 Zilis faced many questions on the stand about her loyalties. David Ingram, NBC news, 6 May 2026 Yet the constituencies and their causes, loyalties and duties remain as relevant as today’s headlines. Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 4 May 2026 Nothing Bundt Cakes For Teacher Appreciation Week, members of the Bundtastic Rewards loyalty program can earn 100, 200 or 300 bonus points when purchasing a Single, Double or Triple Bundtlet Tower. Christopher Edwards, PEOPLE, 4 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
Noun
  • My real allegiance, if burritos can inspire allegiance, is to the northern-Mexican style, made with a modest amount of filling and rolled into a consequentially narrower cylinder.
    Helen Rosner, New Yorker, 3 May 2026
  • Naturalized citizens study American history, pass a civics test, swear allegiance to the United States, and accept the duties of membership in the political community.
    Matt Klink, Oc Register, 1 May 2026
Noun
  • The company began as a shapewear brand offering a wide range of sizes, from XXS to 5XL, reflecting a commitment to body positivity.
    Lisa Gutierrez May 2, Kansas City Star, 2 May 2026
  • Fujimori sought to reassure voters by emphasizing democratic commitments and acknowledging abuses committed under her father’s government, though without fully repudiating his legacy.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 2 May 2026
Noun
  • Vogue's hosts asked her on the carpet, later commending her dedication to fashion, art and costume.
    Dalila Muata, NBC news, 5 May 2026
  • Korean War fighter pilot and Medal of Honor recipient Royce Williams was honored May 1 at the Mount Soledad National Veterans Memorial in La Jolla with a formal ceremony and plaque dedication.
    Ashley Mackin Solomon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 May 2026
Noun
  • For Wood, her dedication to preserving her showgirl house feels like a natural extension of Vegas’s longstanding devotion to visual spectacle.
    Zoey Goto, Architectural Digest, 6 May 2026
  • His devotion to older movies earned Turner a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2004.
    David Bauder, Chicago Tribune, 6 May 2026
Noun
  • By declaring his intent before hearing the evidence, Scott showed his fidelity to Trump outweighed his fidelity to the Constitution.
    Jim Paladino, The Orlando Sentinel, 1 May 2026
  • The chaotic noise of Main Street traffic dissolves into the walls of this former bank vault, replaced by high-fidelity global sounds.
    Nathanael Gassett, Bon Appetit Magazine, 30 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 8 May. 2026.

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