steadfast

Or sted·fast

[sted-fast, -fahst, -fuhst]

adjective

1. fixed in direction; steadily directed.

   a steadfast gaze.

2. firm in purpose, resolution, faith, attachment, etc., as a person.

   a steadfast friend.

   Synonyms: constant, reliable, dependable, sure
   Antonyms: variable, capricious

3. unwavering, as resolution, faith, adherence, etc.

4. firmly established, as an institution or a state of affairs.

   Synonyms: stable

5. firmly fixed in place or position.

   Synonyms: stable

steadfast

/ ˈstɛdfəst, -ˌfɑːst /

adjective

1. (esp of a person's gaze) fixed in intensity or direction; steady

2. unwavering or determined in purpose, loyalty, etc

   steadfast resolve

Other Word Forms

• steadfastness noun
• steadfastly adverb
• oversteadfast adjective
• unsteadfast adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of steadfast¹

First recorded before 1000; Middle English stedefast, Old English stedefæst; stead, fast ¹

Synonym Study

Steadfast, staunch, steady imply a sureness and continuousness that may be depended upon. Steadfast literally means fixed in place, but is chiefly used figuratively to indicate undeviating constancy or resolution: steadfast in one's faith. Staunch literally means watertight, as of a vessel, and therefore strong and firm; figuratively, it is used of loyal support that will endure strain: a staunch advocate of free trade. Literally, steady is applied to that which is relatively firm in position or continuous in movement or duration: a steady flow; figuratively, it implies sober regularity or persistence: a steady worker.

Example Sentences

Thus, the Dodgers staff brainstormed ways to get their message across, and have the steadfast Kershaw to buy-in to their suggested changes.

From Los Angeles Times

“I have been a steadfast champion for gender equity throughout my career and will redouble my efforts in this important area going forward,” he said in 2022.

From Los Angeles Times

Yet, within the walls of the league’s officiating office, there is steadfast belief that referees are doing their jobs well.

From Los Angeles Times

"While the complexity of global supply chains presents challenges, Longi remains steadfast in its efforts to eliminate any risks associated with forced labour."

From BBC

The songwriter “suffered from respiratory issues” in recent months but remained steadfast in his songwriting “till the very end.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• abiding 
• adamant 
• ardent 
• dedicated 
• faithful 
• inflexible 
• intense 
• relentless 
• resolute 
• rigid 
• single-minded 
• staunch 
• stubborn 
• true 
• unflinching 
• unqualified 
• unswerving 
• unwavering 
• unyielding