mindmap root((忠实)) faithful implies unswerving adherence to a person or thing or to the oath or promise by which a tie was contracted: ~ to her marriage vows. loyal implies firm resistance to any temptation to desert or betray: the army remained ~ to the czar. constant stresses continuing firmness of emotional attachment without necessarily implying strict obedience to promises or vows: ~ lovers. staunch suggests fortitude and resolution in adherence and imperviousness to influences that would weaken it: a ~ defender of free speech. steadfast implies a steady and unwavering course in love, allegiance, or conviction: ~ in their support of democratic principles. resolute emphasizes firm determination to adhere to a course or purpose: ~ in his determination to see justice done.