I. ˈfāth-fəl 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 -fə-lē 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
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 faithful s