unswerving
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ʌnswˈɜːvɪŋ/
US
- /ənˈswɜrvɪŋ/
Description
- steadfast
- loyal
- firm
- constant
- determined
Imagine a lighthouse beam cutting through a storm. This word describes someone or something that stays firm and does not turn away, even when things get hard. A truly loyal friend, for example, stays by your side no matter what.
It often points to strong character and a refusal to be pulled off course. You might see it in a commitment to a cause, such as fighting for justice, or in a steady gaze that does not look away. It is more than simple stubbornness; it suggests acting from clear values. The word has a slightly literary feel, but it is still used to describe people who stay true to what they believe.
To be unswerving is to remain steadfast, resolute, and unwavering in your purpose, loyalty, or belief—even in the face of opposition, difficulty, or temptation. It describes a quality of absolute consistency and determination. For example: "Despite intense pressure from her colleagues, she remained unswerving in her commitment to ethical journalism."
Unswerving isn't simply about being stubborn; it implies a strong moral compass or deeply held conviction driving the behavior. An unswerving dedication to a goal means you will pursue it relentlessly, without wavering or losing focus.
You might describe someone's gaze as unswerving—meaning they maintain direct eye contact with unwavering intensity. Or you could talk about an unswerving loyalty to a friend, family member, or country. It suggests a bond that cannot be broken by circumstance or the passage of time.
Historically, the word comes from the idea of not swerving or turning aside from a physical path. Think of a ship holding its course through rough seas; it requires constant effort and steady focus to remain on track. In a metaphorical sense, it applies to any person who refuses to be diverted from their chosen path.
So, whether describing a person's character, a commitment to a cause, or a steadfast gaze, "unswerving" speaks to an unyielding strength and resolute determination that doesn't bend or break under pressure.
Examples
- 1
Personal support
Throughout the investigation, she had the unswerving support of her closest friends.
- 2
Medical care
The hospital is known for its unswerving commitment to patient care.
Pattern
commitment to + cause/person
strong support for or dedication to it
- 3
Firm belief
Even after two failed launches, he remained unswerving in his belief that the company would recover.
Pattern
unswerving in + feeling/opinion/purpose
continuing firmly in it
- 4
Political loyalty
Many voters respected her unswerving loyalty to her principles, even when it hurt her popularity.
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- unswervingadjective