variants also stanch

Synonym Chooser

How is the word staunch distinct from other similar adjectives?

Some common synonyms of staunch are constant, faithful, loyal, resolute, and steadfast. While all these words mean "firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance," staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it.

a staunch defender of free speech

When can constant be used instead of staunch?

The words constant and staunch can be used in similar contexts, but constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows.

constant friends

When could faithful be used to replace staunch?

The synonyms faithful and staunch are sometimes interchangeable, but 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 would loyal be a good substitute for staunch?

Although the words loyal and staunch have much in common, loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray.

remained loyal to the czar

When is it sensible to use resolute instead of staunch?

While the synonyms resolute and staunch are close in meaning, resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose.

a resolute ally

When is steadfast a more appropriate choice than staunch?

While in some cases nearly identical to staunch, steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction.

steadfast in their support

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 staunch Alina Habba, a staunch ally of President Trump, was sworn in Friday afternoon to serve as U.S. attorney for New Jersey, days after Trump tapped her to serve in the role. The Hill Staff, The Hill, 28 Mar. 2025 Gage was remembered as a staunch proponent of South Santa Clara County. Luis Melecio-Zambrano, Mercury News, 27 Mar. 2025 And considering all the political capital Newsom has poured into high-speed rail — in part due to its staunch labor union backing — California almost certainly isn’t giving up on the project entirely. Sammy Roth, Los Angeles Times, 27 Mar. 2025 And if everyone involved is being honest — even his staunchest critics — Sanders has delivered in every way imaginable. Troy Renck, Denver Post, 28 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for staunch
Recent Examples of Synonyms for staunch
Adjective
  • As a devout Muslim, Abdi, 24, dresses modestly and wears a hijab, or, when shooting or walking shows, a hat or head covering.
    Courtney Crowder, USA TODAY, 22 Mar. 2025
  • The venue will certainly attract flocks of deadheads, who remain among the most devout fanbases in music.
    Ethan Millman, The Hollywood Reporter, 21 Mar. 2025
Adjective
  • While industries evolve and AI transforms work, a company’s commitment to its weekly all-hands meeting or quarterly offsite can remain steadfast.
    Susanne Biro, Forbes.com, 8 Apr. 2025
  • Trump’s comments echo those made by Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, who on Sunday said the administration will remain steadfast in its plans for reciprocal tariffs on major U.S. trading partners, even in the face of the global stock market sell-off.
    Tanaya Macheel, CNBC, 7 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • Francis hailed as 'true advocate for peace' In 2019, Francis became the first pontiff to set foot on the peninsula where Islam was born.
    N'dea Yancey-Bragg, USA Today, 22 Apr. 2025
  • But against the Cavaliers, against the length of Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, Ware stands essential, on a Heat roster that lacks a true backup center.
    Ira Winderman, Sun Sentinel, 21 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The network specializes in developing, distributing, and marketing talk radio shows that become appointment listening events for loyal audiences.
    Ethan Stone, USA Today, 13 Apr. 2025
  • Clearly, The Wine Group values the loyal followings these brands currently enjoy.
    Laura Ness, Mercury News, 13 Apr. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Staunch.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/staunch. Accessed 24 Apr. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on staunch

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