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 Unlike Chapek, D’Amaro has been a visible fixture on the ground at the parks, respected by fans and workers alike, putting in the facetime to garner loyalty from these critical stakeholders. Roland Betancourt, Fortune, 28 Apr. 2026 The 6-7 forward showed more patience and loyalty than most college players these days, eschewing opportunities to enter the transfer portal and staying at UConn for three years. Kels Dayton, Hartford Courant, 28 Apr. 2026 In addition, the technology serves as a powerful retention tool, the companies said, with DressX reporting that engaged users demonstrate up to seven times higher long-term retention, suggesting that interactive merchandising is becoming a cornerstone of digital loyalty. Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 28 Apr. 2026 The tremendous loyalty and support from SummerStage’s fans is the fuel that keeps us going. Preezy Brown, Rolling Stone, 28 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
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
Noun
  • The only other treatment option for children with genetic deafness is cochlear implants, Shearer said, which restore the ability to hear speech and music, but reduce the fidelity of the sound.
    Berkeley Lovelace Jr, NBC news, 23 Apr. 2026
  • But this should not be confused with fidelity or long-term commitment.
    Encyclopedia Britannica, Encyclopedia Britannica, 23 Apr. 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Loyalty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/loyalty. Accessed 2 May. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on loyalty

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster