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 In a show otherwise marked by steadfast monogamy and occasional affairs, the monumental feeling of a first major relationship is a breath of fresh air. Alison Herman, Variety, 20 June 2025 As the state braces for possible future floods, Travis' family is honoring him as a steadfast brother and loving son. Rachel Raposas, People.com, 19 June 2025 By understanding the needs of businesses, financial institutions can realign efforts to meet businesses’ needs while remaining steadfast in addressing organizational goals and objectives. Reed Luhtanen, Forbes.com, 17 June 2025 Despite setbacks — including talks of a walkout, which stalled when leadership got wind of the strategic move — the cheerleaders remained steadfast in their pursuit. Angelique Jackson, Variety, 25 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for steadfast
Recent Examples of Synonyms for steadfast
Adjective
  • As for the loyal opposition, Democrats are in bad odor with voters and even many of their own partisans after Joe Biden’s handlers gaslighted the public on the frailty and declining faculties of the octogenarian president.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2025
  • He’s still got the voice, though a bit gravely, and a very loyal fan base.
    jsonline.com, jsonline.com, 4 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
  • Black Americans ranked more devout in each category than white Americans and Hispanic Americans, according to the poll.
    Natalie Demaree, Miami Herald, 15 May 2025
  • Vance Boelter, the suspect in the attack, has been described as a devout Christian who has attended President Donald Trump’s campaign rallies, according to The Associated Press.
    Rebecca Morin, USA Today, 18 June 2025
Adjective
  • Now, as the families prepare for next week's sentencing hearing on July 23, Patterson and Ward are hoping to give readers a true sense of the four victims.
    ABC News, ABC News, 14 July 2025
  • What's changing with Gemini on Android Currently, the official email and support pages aren't providing consistent information on Gemini's true behavior regarding this change and how to disable it.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 14 July 2025
Adjective
  • Responding to soaring demand, VistaJet — the first private aviation company — has introduced dedicated Citation XLS aircrafts to the UK market, making domestic travel in style a possibility.
    Angela Lei, Forbes.com, 13 July 2025
  • Within, the city’s contemporary art movement is on full display at a dedicated art exhibition space and a concept store curated by local tastemaker Sally Gallante.
    Michaela Trimble, Vogue, 13 July 2025
Adjective
  • The other gravesite is devoted to members of the Dodge family.
    Rick Sobey, Boston Herald, 8 July 2025
  • Half of the speech is devoted to condemning slavery, its defenders and those who remain silent in its face.
    Frederic J. Fransen, The Orlando Sentinel, 7 July 2025
Adjective
  • But maybe, in an odd way, the timing is good, given the looming July 31 trade deadline.
    Marc Topkin, The Orlando Sentinel, 6 July 2025
  • See my tips and best picks on how to protect yourself from identity theft at Cyberguy.com/IdentityTheft 10.
    Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 6 July 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Podcast

Cite this Entry

“Steadfast.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/steadfast. Accessed 19 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on steadfast

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

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