Synonym Chooser

How is the word steadfast distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of steadfast are constant, faithful, loyal, resolute, and staunch. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

When is it sensible to use constant instead of steadfast?

The synonyms constant and steadfast are sometimes interchangeable, but constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

In what contexts can faithful take the place of steadfast?

The words faithful and steadfast are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted.

faithful to her promise

When could loyal be used to replace steadfast?

While in some cases nearly identical to steadfast, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is resolute a more appropriate choice than steadfast?

The meanings of resolute and steadfast largely overlap; however, resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When might staunch be a better fit than steadfast?

While the synonyms staunch and steadfast are close in meaning, staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

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 steadfast While European nations have remained steadfast in their support of Ukraine, Washington’s support since Trump re-took office in January has wavered from the Biden administration as the U.S. has turned its attention to Israel's war in Gaza, returning the hostages and addressing Iran’s nuclear threat. Caitlin McFall, FOXNews.com, 1 July 2025 But Rosary’s goals and its place in the community have remained steadfast, school leadership says. Molly Morrow, Chicago Tribune, 7 July 2025 Accessibility and Sustainability Environmental care is one of Bitter End’s most steadfast values. Lydia Price, Travel + Leisure, 6 July 2025 But this furniture remains steadfast, effortlessly strong, every inch of it a magnificent adaptation. Robb Report Studio, Robb Report, 2 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • This is the first time a studio has put tickets for sale this early in advance, but considering Nolan has a loyal army of fans large enough to sack a city, there certainly won’t be any shortage of uptake.
    Benny Har-Even, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • On the one hand, Sharon Horgan — who plays Eva Garvey in the Apple TV+ dramedy about a group of loyal and protective Irish sisters — was nominated for season 1.
    EW.com, EW.com, 15 July 2025
Adjective
  • Berrien is positioning himself as a staunch Trump backer in his first ads of the race.
    Scott Bauer, Chicago Tribune, 14 July 2025
  • The eventual confirmation of his passing, delivered by solemn White House and medical officials, triggered an outpouring of condolences from across the political spectrum, even from those who had been his staunchest opponents.
    Theo Burman, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • Man’s best friend has been our faithful companion for thousands of years.
    Rudy Molinek, Smithsonian Magazine, 14 July 2025
  • In Clark Kent’s corner is reporter Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and his faithful companion Krypto the Superdog.
    Rebecca Rubin, Variety, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • Nikki Glaser, who has attended 22 Eras Tour concerts and been a devout Swiftie, introduced the singer's award.
    Bryan West, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
  • The mixture of the spectacular Spidey elements will wow web-slinger fans from young children to seniors and the average MCU watcher to devout comic readers and collectors.
    Scott King, Forbes.com, 14 June 2025
Adjective
  • This rings especially true for me, a vegetarian for nearly two decades.
    Conçetta Ciarlo, Vogue, 26 July 2025
  • This was certainly true of the Mets last summer when Taylor played his way into the lineup more consistently than Harrison Bader.
    Abbey Mastracco, New York Daily News, 26 July 2025
Adjective
  • The spa even features a dedicated hair and nail salon, as well as two medical treatment rooms, a Zen Garden, a fitness center and yoga studio, and a variety of massage therapies.
    India Brown, Robb Report, 25 July 2025
  • Then Gilmore flamed out, lost everything, and became a dedicated boozer, making flasks out of everything from cucumbers to cuckoo clocks.
    David Fear, Rolling Stone, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • And Vanderbilt University’s sports programs – and especially its two-time national champion baseball team coached by Tim Corbin – have a devoted following.
    Gentry Estes, The Tennessean, 26 July 2025
  • Two lives lost Young’s loved ones described him as a devoted family man who brought joy and love to those around him.
    Nathan Pilling July 25, Kansas City Star, 25 July 2025
Adjective
  • Chef-owner Miguel Angel Jimenez is well worth consulting for the night’s specials and a wine from the impressively deep good list.
    John Mariani, Forbes.com, 16 July 2025
  • Also nominated in the Emmy category of best lead actress in a drama series are Sharon Horgan for Bad Sisters, Britt Lower for Severance, Bella Ramsey for The Last of Us and Keri Russell for The Diplomat.
    Brande Victorian, HollywoodReporter, 15 July 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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