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 Luna, who is among the House’s more conservative lawmakers, made national headlines for her steadfast support of Trump. Lisa Mascaro and Leah Askarinam, Los Angeles Times, 1 Apr. 2025 Despite the shifting sands in the content marketplace, Mayer assured the crowd of industry insiders that Blackrock remains steadfast in its Candle investment. Cynthia Littleton, Variety, 1 Apr. 2025 Despite growing exhaustion, Booker remained steadfast, sustaining himself with only water as his voice grew stronger with emotion. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 1 Apr. 2025 And although climate action faces headwinds from the rising tide of populist politics around the world, this year’s group of honorees remain steadfast in championing sustainability and shaping a greener future. Time Staff, Time, 27 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • The network specializes in developing, distributing, and marketing talk radio shows that become appointment listening events for loyal audiences.
    Ethan Stone, USA Today, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Clearly, The Wine Group values the loyal followings these brands currently enjoy.
    Laura Ness, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The older generation, considered as staunch wealth preservers, are deciding to enjoy their wealth now rather than simply passing it on.
    Jack Kelly, Forbes.com, 17 Apr. 2025
  • Pelosi, who wrote off the matter for a long period of time, seemed to back down on her staunch opinions ahead of the 2022 midterm elections.
    Lauren Green, The Washington Examiner, 16 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The Lenovo faithful will miss the signature red TrackPoint in the center of the keyboard, and typing on the ThinkPad X9 is a definite downgrade from the usual ThinkPad.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Kirill is the head of Russia’s Orthodox Church, a faithful backer of the Russian leader and an advocate for the war in Ukraine.
    Catherine Nicholls, CNN Money, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • As a devout Muslim, Abdi, 24, dresses modestly and wears a hijab, or, when shooting or walking shows, a hat or head covering.
    Courtney Crowder, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2025
  • The venue will certainly attract flocks of deadheads, who remain among the most devout fanbases in music.
    Ethan Millman, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • Francis hailed as 'true advocate for peace' In 2019, Francis became the first pontiff to set foot on the peninsula where Islam was born.
    N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025
  • But against the Cavaliers, against the length of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, Ware stands essential, on a Heat roster that lacks a true backup center.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • One of our biggest needs is a dedicated recreational facility that serves both youth and seniors—providing safe, engaging spaces for after-school programs, wellness activities, and community connection.
    Harrison Mantas, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Apr. 2025
  • Since being revealed as Jade Cargill’s mystery assailant, Naomi has gone Super Saiyan as a dedicated Twitter troll, Quote Tweeting Jade with every click.
    Alfred Konuwa, Forbes.com, 20 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • His life was devoted to God, to people, and to the Church.
    Chad de Guzman, Time, 21 Apr. 2025
  • Pangolin: Kulu’s Journey (Netflix documentary) Rescued from poachers, an endangered baby pangolin embarks on a journey back to the wild with help from a devoted human guardian in this documentary.
    Ryan Schwartz, TVLine, 19 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • After a week full of monstrous swings, the S&P 500 posted its best weekly performance since November 23, while the Nasdaq saw its best week since November 2022, according to the financial data firm FactSet.
    Anne Marie Drummond Lee, CBS News, 11 Apr. 2025
  • Shorts are the only categories whose winners are ineligible for best picture, acting, screenplay or any other major Oscar, due to their length.
    Clayton Davis, Variety, 11 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

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