Synonym Chooser

How is the word fealty distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of fealty are allegiance, devotion, fidelity, loyalty, and piety. While all these words mean "faithfulness to something to which one is bound by pledge or duty," fealty implies a fidelity acknowledged by the individual and as compelling as a sworn vow.

fealty to the truth

Where would allegiance be a reasonable alternative to fealty?

While the synonyms allegiance and fealty are close in meaning, allegiance suggests an adherence like that of citizens to their country.

pledging allegiance

In what contexts can devotion take the place of fealty?

The meanings of devotion and fealty largely overlap; however, devotion stresses zeal and service amounting to self-dedication.

a painter's devotion to her art

When could fidelity be used to replace fealty?

While in some cases nearly identical to fealty, fidelity implies strict and continuing faithfulness to an obligation, trust, or duty.

marital fidelity

When would loyalty be a good substitute for fealty?

The words loyalty and fealty 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 might piety be a better fit than fealty?

The synonyms piety and fealty 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 fealty Other restrictions include fealty to the concept that a husband is the head of the family, and his wife is legally bound to obey him. Kim Hjelmgaard, USA Today, 17 June 2025 For many on the Christian Right, anything but fealty to Israel is an affront to their faith. Philip Elliott, Time, 17 June 2025 The key, for me, was not fealty to the book or Margaret as an artist — it was born out of the storytelling in the novel that had already stood up to a whole bunch of readings. Salamishah Tillet, New York Times, 2 May 2025 In addition to a pledge of fealty, the money can manifest as physical programming. Mia Cathell, The Washington Examiner, 13 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for fealty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fealty
Noun
  • If anything, the blue-and-red Cubs hat made his allegiance clear.
    Virginia Chamlee, People.com, 9 July 2025
  • Patriotic education does not mean propaganda to produce blind allegiance to the government.
    Linda McMahon, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 July 2025
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

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

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