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 That united display of fealty reflected Big Tech's hopes that Trump would be more accommodating than former President Joe Biden's administration was and help propel an already booming industry to even greater heights. Arkansas Online, 10 Apr. 2025 While the facts, as there are, remain the same, what is different is that instead of straight-arrow Attorney General Merrick Garland, sitting in the top job now is AG Pam Bondi, whose fealty to impartial justice isn’t quite as strong. New York Daily News Editorial Board, New York Daily News, 23 Apr. 2025 But no politician has paid more fealty to this myth than Donald Trump. Made By History, Time, 21 Apr. 2025 And the obsequious fealty shown to him by the Republican Party reinforces why a president running amok should never have this much power again. Reader Commentary, Baltimore Sun, 18 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fealty
Recent Examples of Synonyms for fealty
Noun
  • Many have poked fun at the viral moment, jokingly expressing their allegiance with the disgruntled canine.
    Melissa Fleur Afshar, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 May 2025
  • While many of the discussion topics will be similar to those of other leagues’ CBA talks, the dynamics are different because of where fans’ allegiances lie within the sport.
    Lev Akabas, Sportico.com, 15 May 2025
Noun
  • Members of the Dunkin' Rewards loyalty program can get a 10-count Munchkins order for $2 through May 15.
    Mike Snider, USA Today, 10 May 2025
  • Unlike President Donald Trump who seems to have the hardest time developing the finessed ways of a seasoned politician, Pritzker became a fast learner of how to overtly and covertly use his riches to buy loyalty or crush those who stand in his way.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 9 May 2025
Noun
  • His personal journey fuels his commitment to guiding families through the intricate landscape of financial tools and benefits available to support individuals with special needs.
    Jason Phillips, USA Today, 15 May 2025
  • Sports content is expected to remain the dominant force in securing advertiser commitments during Upfronts this year, despite growing economic uncertainty.
    Lillian Rizzo, CNBC, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • The dedication of a park, statue, plaque or anything else for Rose will draw a crowd in Cincinnati.
    C. Trent Rosecrans, New York Times, 15 May 2025
  • His leadership and involvement in various organizations reflect his dedication to empowering global thinkers and contributing to the international business landscape.
    Muraly Srinarayanathas, Forbes.com, 14 May 2025
Noun
  • Medieval England was incredibly tied to religious devotion.
    Charles Towers-Clark, Forbes.com, 16 May 2025
  • The actor enhances his character’s long inner monologues with his eloquent ice-blue eyes, which can convey emotions ranging from disdain and discomfiture to despair and devotion.
    Kristen Baldwin, EW.com, 12 May 2025
Noun
  • The movement is impressively responsive and snappy, and the designs, though dated compared with modern graphical fidelity, look great thanks to the art style and flashy effects.
    PC Magazine, PC Magazine, 30 Apr. 2025
  • Churchill emphasized that while the decision may disappoint some supporters, it was made in the interest of long-term sustainability and mission fidelity.
    Darrell Smith, Sacbee.com, 30 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Fealty.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/fealty. Accessed 21 May. 2025.

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