loyalty

noun

ˈlȯi(-ə)l-tē How to pronounce loyalty (audio)
Definition of loyaltynext
as in allegiance
adherence to something to which one is bound by a pledge or duty there was no denying that dog's loyalty to his master

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 But both United and Delta pointed to strength in their premium cabins, where seats are several times more expensive than a coach fare, as well as in their loyalty programs. —Leslie Josephs, CNBC, 18 July 2025 The law imposes certain duties on brokers, such as loyalty, full disclosure, and accounting. —Gary Singer, Sun Sentinel, 17 July 2025 The major takeaways from the first half included consumers being conscious and stretching their dollar, experiences and loyalty programs evolving to focus on personalization and engagement and digital-first brands doubling down on physical retail experiences and diversifying their offerings. —Kanika Talwar, Footwear News, 17 July 2025 This change would allow the city attorney to serve the Oakland government as a single client rather than navigating competing loyalties. —Nate Miley, Mercury News, 17 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for loyalty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for loyalty
  1. allegiance
  2. commitment
  3. dedication
  4. devotion
  5. fidelity
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
Definition of allegiance
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
Definition of commitment
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
Definition of dedication
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
Definition of devotion
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
Definition of fidelity

Browse Nearby Words

loyalists
loyalty
lozenge
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Cite this Entry

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

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Nglish: Translation of loyalty for Spanish Speakers

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