Definition of fidelitynext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word fidelity distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fidelity are allegiance, devotion, fealty, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fidelity?

The words allegiance and fidelity are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When would devotion be a good substitute for fidelity?

While the synonyms devotion and fidelity are close in meaning, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When can fealty be used instead of fidelity?

The meanings of fealty and fidelity largely overlap; however, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When might loyalty be a better fit than fidelity?

The words loyalty and fidelity can be used in similar contexts, but 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 could piety be used to replace fidelity?

The synonyms piety and fidelity are sometimes interchangeable, 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 fidelity At our best, what sets our industry, and our country, apart is our fidelity to the rule of law, matched by our openness to change. Brent Lang, Variety, 14 Apr. 2026 The birds are highly loyal to their breeding sites, often returning to the same location year after year, a behavior known as site fidelity, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Samantha Agate, Kansas City Star, 14 Apr. 2026 These birds are highly loyal to their breeding sites, often returning to the same location year after year, a behavior known as site fidelity, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Samantha Agate, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Apr. 2026 The birds are highly loyal to these sites, a behavior known as site fidelity, according to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology. Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 14 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for fidelity
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fidelity
Noun
  • Members of the Atmos Rewards loyalty program can pack up to 12 bottles in a box or case weighing 50 pounds or less.
    Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Your laugh, your kindness, your wit, your strength, your loyalty, your passion, and your zest for life.
    Becca Longmire, PEOPLE, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Winston’s sports allegiances have changed, too.
    Julie Belcove, Robb Report, 25 Apr. 2026
  • Brian was obsessed with being the Rolling Stones’ leader but had grown moody ever since Keith’s allegiance shifted to Mick.
    Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 21 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Messenger Mercury in your 7th House of Partnership squares expansive Jupiter in your 10th House of Career, pushing conversations about commitments, expectations, and time.
    Tarot.com, Hartford Courant, 26 Apr. 2026
  • As of Friday, the San Diego Housing Commission had not yet received its annual HUD funding commitment.
    Michael Smolens, San Diego Union-Tribune, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • The team held a pre-game ceremony at Truist Park to celebrate Snitker, 70, for his illustrious career and dedication to the franchise.
    Gabriel Burns, AJC.com, 26 Apr. 2026
  • What stood out most was the crew’s dedication and enthusiasm, along with the intimacy of the experience; the ship is designed for just 100 guests.
    David Morris, Travel + Leisure, 26 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • Locating the wreck connects us to their sacrifice and reminds us that devotion to duty endures.
    Alexandra Koch, FOXNews.com, 29 Apr. 2026
  • Their language — marked by rich, tactile detail and a colloquial urgency — has quietly shaped how generations of songwriters articulate devotion.
    New York Times, New York Times, 28 Apr. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Fidelity.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fidelity. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

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