n.
Pronunciation: ' f ā th-f ə l
Function: 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>
– faith · ful · ly \ -f ə -l ē \ adverb
– faith · ful · ness 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>.