Meaning of loyal in English

1. Pronunciation

   /ˈlɔɪ(ə)l/

   US accent

   How to pronounce loyal in American English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

   UK accent

   How to pronounce loyal in British English, in context ▾
   Use the controls below to browse different examples of pronunciation.

1. Classifying Adjective

   loyal

   Definitions

   1. unwavering in devotion to friend or vow or cause

   Examples

   • « a firm ally »
   • « loyal supporters »
   • « the true-hearted soldier...of Tippecanoe- Campaign song for William Henry Harrison »
   • « fast friends »

   Synonyms

   • faithful

2. Qualitative Adjective

   loyal

   Etymology

   mid 16th century: from French, via Old French loial from Latin legalis (see legal)

   Definitions

   1. steadfast in allegiance or duty

   Examples

   • « loyal subjects »
   • « loyal friends stood by him »

   Synonyms

   • allegiant
   • doglike
   • hard-core
   • hardcore
   • leal
   • liege
   • true-blue

   Antonyms

   • disloyal
3. 2. inspired by love for your country

   Synonyms

   • chauvinistic
   • flag-waving(a)
   • jingoistic
   • nationalistic
   • ultranationalistic
   • superpatriotic

   Antonyms

   • unpatriotic
   • disloyal

See also

• loyal