- faithful
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I. adjective
Date: 14th century
1. obsolete full of faith
2. steadfast in affection or allegiance ; loyal
3. firm in adherence to promises or in observance of duty ; conscientious
4. given with strong assurance ; binding <a faithful promise> 5. true to the facts, to a standard, or to an original <a faithful copy> • faithfully adverb • faithfulness noun Synonyms: faithful, loyal, constant, staunch, steadfast, resolute mean firm in adherence to whatever one owes allegiance. 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>. loyal implies a firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray <remained loyal to the czar>. constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows <constant friends>. staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it <a staunch defender of free speech>. steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction <steadfast in their support>. resolute implies firm determination to adhere to a cause or purpose <a resolute ally>. II. noun Date: circa 1533 1. plural in construction a. church members in full communion and good standing — used with the b. the body of believers in Islam — used with the 2. plural faithful or faithfuls one who is faithful; especially a loyal follower, member, or fan <party faithfuls>
New Collegiate Dictionary. 2001.