Definition

Loyal, devoted, and steadfast in one’s allegiance or commitment.

Pronunciation

US English

UK English

Part of Speech

Adjective

Synonyms

Loyal, devoted, steadfast, true, unwavering

Antonyms

Unfaithful, disloyal, traitorous, fickle, unreliable

Word Forms

Part of Speech Words
Noun faithfulnesses, faithfuls, faithfulness, faithful
Verb None
Adjective faithful
Adverb faithfully

Example Sentences

  • Despite the challenges and temptations, he remained faithful to his marriage vows, demonstrating unwavering loyalty and commitment to his spouse.

  • The dog was incredibly faithful to its owner, always by their side, offering comfort, companionship, and unconditional love.

  • The employees praised their faithful leader for consistently supporting and advocating for their professional growth and well-being.

  • The historian meticulously studied primary sources to ensure the accuracy of the research and provide a faithful representation of historical events.

Usage

The word “faithful” is an adjective that is used to describe someone or something that is loyal, steadfast, and reliable. The word is derived from the Latin word “fidelis,” which means “loyal” or “trustworthy.”

The root word “fidelis” is the basis for many other related words, such as “fidelity” and “infidelity.” The suffix “-ity” is used to turn the adjective “faithful” into the abstract noun “fidelity,” which refers to the quality of being faithful or loyal. The prefix “un-” can be added to “faithful” to create the word “unfaithful,” which means the opposite of faithful.

In usage, “faithful” is a term that is often associated with commitment, trust, and reliability. It is commonly used to describe people who are dependable and loyal, such as a faithful friend or a faithful employee. The term is also used to describe things that are reliable and consistent, such as a faithful car that always starts or a faithful watch that keeps accurate time.

In a religious context, the term “faithful” is often used to describe people who are devout and committed to their religious beliefs. For example, a faithful Christian is someone who is committed to living a life of faith and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. Similarly, a faithful Muslim is someone who is committed to following the teachings of the Quran and living a life of piety and devotion.

However, it’s important to note that the term “faithful” can also have negative connotations in certain contexts. For example, a faithful spouse might be seen as overly possessive or jealous, while a faithful employee might be seen as unadventurous or lacking in creativity.

In conclusion, “faithful” is a term that is used to describe someone or something that is loyal, steadfast, and reliable. It is derived from the Latin word “fidelis,” and can be modified with suffixes and prefixes to create related words. While the term is generally used in a positive context, it’s important to be aware of its potential negative connotations in certain contexts.