Loyalty

Definition

The quality of being loyal to someone or something; a strong feeling of allegiance or support.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɔɪəlti/
• Respelling: LOY-ul-tee (with "LOY" as in "boy" and "tee" as in "tea")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈlɔɪəlti/
• Respelling: LOY-ul-tee (with "LOY" as in "boy" and "tee" as in "tea")

In both dialects, "loyalty" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "LOY." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "LOY-ul-tee."

Etymology

Derived from the Old French word "loialte", which in turn comes from the Latin word "legalitas", meaning "legality", indicating lawfulness or adherence to the law.

Derivatives

• Loyally
• Loyal
• Disloyalty
• Loyalist
• Loyalness

Synonyms

• Faithfulness
• Allegiance
• Fidelity

Antonyms

• Disloyalty
• Betrayal
• Treachery

Usage

Loyalty is often discussed in contexts such as personal relationships, business, politics, and religion. It is considered a key virtue and is highly valued in many cultures and societies.

• His loyalty to the company was evident when he declined a lucrative job offer from a rival firm.

Related Terms

• Devotion
• Dedication
• Commitment
• Trustworthiness
• Steadfastness

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Loyalty (Noun): A strong feeling of support or allegiance.
  • Example: "Her loyalty to her family is unwavering."

• Loyalty (Noun): The quality of being loyal to someone or something.
  • Example: "The soldier’s loyalty to his country was evident in his bravery."