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DictionarystalwartLoyal support
noun / adjective

stalwart

STAWL-wurt/stˈɔlwɝt/

Loyal and dependable in support.

She remains a stalwart supporter of the library.

A dependable volunteer keeps stacking sandbags in rain while helping protect a neighbor's doorway.
Etymology
stalwartOld Englishgood, serviceable

Old English stælwierðe meant “good, serviceable.” Later senses of physical strength and resoluteness connect this practical usefulness with strength of character: being loyal and dependable.

In context

Brookings Institution14:18
a big thank you to the Carnegie Corporation of New York who has been our long-standing stalwart funder of of this work
Challenges in moving toward a more inclusive democracy: From the 13th Annual American Values Survey

More examples

  • Party stalwarts volunteer at every election.
  • His stalwart friendship helps her through the crisis.
  • The club honors its stalwarts for decades of service.

Forms

stalwart · stalwarts

Similar words

loyal
Emphasizes continued allegiance rather than sturdy dependability.
staunch
Staunch stresses firm loyalty; stalwart can also suggest reliable strength in support.