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DictionarystaunchFirmly loyal
adjective

staunch

STAWNCH/stɔːntʃ/

firm and loyal in support

He remains a staunch friend while another person criticizes her.

A steadfast adult stands supportively beside a friend who faces criticism from a third adult; loyal posture and reassuring shoulder touch, no text or threatening action.
Etymology
staunchOld Frenchwatertight

Old French estanc meant 'watertight.' English moved from this physical sense to 'strong, substantial,' then applied the word to people who remain firm and true to their principles.

In context

Life of A Gangster35:58
the staunch unionist vehemently opposed to slavery established his agency in the 1850s
JESSE JAMES: The Wild West's Most Legendary Outlaw

More examples

  • She was a staunch defender of the library.
  • The plan had several staunch supporters.
  • Their staunch loyalty survived the difficult years.

Forms

staunch · more staunch · most staunch

Similar words

steadfast
Steadfast remains unwavering; staunch especially emphasizes loyal support.
loyal
Loyal is faithful; staunch intensifies the firmness of that loyalty.