WordGarden.iosteadfast
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /stˈɛdfɑːst/
US
- /ˈstɛdˌfæst/
Meanings
Adjective
firm and unwavering in loyalty, support, or determination
Beyond the definition
To be steadfast means to stay firm in purpose, belief, or loyalty. Think of a lighthouse standing strong against crashing waves - that is steadfastness. It is about staying devoted and committed even when things get difficult. A steadfast friend stays by you through thick and thin, while a steadfast belief is one you hold onto when life tests you.
Imagine a knight in shining armor, steadfast in his duty to protect the kingdom. Or picture a climber, steadfast in the effort to reach the summit despite exhaustion. Steadfastness is not just about strength; it is about steady dedication.
Steadfast describes someone or something that stays firm, resolute, and unwavering, especially in purpose, loyalty, or belief. It goes beyond simply being strong; it suggests a deep commitment that does not easily weaken.
You might describe a leader as steadfast if they remain true to their principles even under pressure. You could also say a friendship is steadfast when it has endured many trials and still remains strong. Historically, the word comes from "stedefast," meaning "firmly established," which gives the sense of something deeply rooted and hard to shake.
Steadfastness is not the same as being stubborn or unable to change. More often, it is about having an inner core of conviction that guides your actions. A steadfast heart can weather a storm. It often appears in literature to describe characters with strong moral purpose or lasting devotion.
Think about a ship's anchor holding firm in a stormy sea; that is steadfastness in action. The word suggests reliability, dependability, and a spirit that does not give way easily. So when you want to describe someone or something truly committed and unwavering, steadfast is a strong choice.
Examples
- 1
Personal decision
She remained steadfast in her decision to leave the city.
- 2
Political support
Even after the scandal, a few voters stayed steadfast in their support for the mayor.
- 3
Friendship
He was a steadfast friend when I was out of work.
- 4
Institutional commitment
The museum has kept a steadfast commitment to free public access.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- remain steadfast
- steadfast commitment
- steadfast support
- steadfast resolve
Word family
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Forms and spellings
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Main spelling
- steadfastadjective