Loyal

ˈlɔɪəl

adjectiveBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

1

Giving or showing firm and constant support or allegiance to a person or institution.

ˈlɔɪəl

adjectivepositiveBeginner
General

Faithful and devoted to a person, cause, or ideal.

The dog was loyal to his owner.

💡 Simply: Being loyal is like having a best friend who always has your back. It means sticking with someone, or something, even when things get tough. Imagine you have a favorite team; being loyal means cheering for them, win or lose!

👶 For kids: Being loyal means you're a good friend and always stick up for your friends and family.

More Examples

2

She has remained loyal to her principles.

3

The citizens were loyal to their queen.

How It's Used

Politics

"The party demanded loyal supporters."

Relationships

"A loyal friend will always be there for you."

Idioms & expressions

loyal to a fault

Excessively or unreasonably loyal.

"He was loyal to a fault, always defending his friend even when he was wrong."

From Old French *loial* (faithful, legal), from Latin *lēgālis* (lawful), from *lēx* (law).

The term 'loyal' has consistently described faithfulness throughout history, often associated with feudal allegiances and political support.

Memory tip

Think of a royal family, who are expected to be loyal to their kingdom.

loyalalloylloyalist

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written