Synonym Chooser

How is the word allegiance distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of allegiance are devotion, fealty, fidelity, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

When might devotion be a better fit than allegiance?

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

a painter's devotion to her art

When would fealty be a good substitute for allegiance?

Although the words fealty and allegiance have much in common, fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

When could fidelity be used to replace allegiance?

The words fidelity and allegiance can be used in similar contexts, but fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

In what contexts can loyalty take the place of allegiance?

The words loyalty and allegiance are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, 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 can piety be used instead of allegiance?

The meanings of piety and allegiance largely overlap; however, 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 allegiance Thaksin denies the allegations and has repeatedly pledged allegiance to the crown. USA Today, 2 July 2025 Regardless of allegiance, anyone watching Game 7 of the NBA Finals on Sunday had to be struck by the calamitous impact of the injury to superstar Tyrese Haliburton on the Indiana Pacers. Steve Henson, Los Angeles Times, 23 June 2025 The two men allegedly pledged allegiance to ISIS and had become radicalized over the internet. Tomás Mier, Rolling Stone, 27 June 2025 There’s also a triangle with Stella being in the center — Stanley and Blanche pulling at the allegiance of Stella. David L. Coddon, San Diego Union-Tribune, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for allegiance
Recent Examples of Synonyms for allegiance
Noun
  • From July 18-20, members of Bruster’s Sweet Rewards loyalty program can earn double points on all purchases.
    Dina Kaur, AZCentral.com, 21 July 2025
  • Book Now Auberge Resorts Collection does not have a loyalty program.
    Jess Feldman, Travel + Leisure, 20 July 2025
Noun
  • The approval came after Skydance and its investment partner, RedBird Capital, assured the FCC of their commitment to unbiased journalism that represents diverse viewpoints.
    USA Today, USA Today, 25 July 2025
  • Urban, who is currently on tour in the U.S. — his next show is scheduled for Saturday, July 26 in Inglewood, Calf. — could not make the residency appointment due to his touring commitments across the country.
    Tommy McArdle, People.com, 25 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
  • Nintendo’s vibrant art style continues to shine at higher resolutions with the additional detail and fidelity.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 16 July 2025
  • The origins of the role actually have their roots in ancient Egypt, where a young boy would be enlisted to carry rings to a couple as a symbol of love, fidelity, and fertility.
    Shelby Wax, Vogue, 10 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Allegiance.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/allegiance. Accessed 30 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on allegiance

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