steadfast
steadfast
Pronunciation
/ˈsted.fæst/
stead: /sted/
/st/ - a voiceless alveolar stop followed by a voiceless alveolar fricative
/e/ - a mid-front unrounded vowel (as in "bed")
/d/ - a voiced alveolar stop
fast: /fæst/
/f/ - a voiceless labiodental fricative
/æ/ - a near-low front unrounded vowel (as in "cat")
/s/ - a voiceless alveolar fricative
/t/ - a voiceless alveolar stop
Word Form Variations
"Steadfast" itself doesn't have standard plural or other inflected forms like nouns or verbs do. It's an adjective. Therefore, it doesn't change based on number or tense.
However, we can look at related words and concepts:
steadfastly: This is the adverb form, modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs. It means in a steadfast manner. Example: "He steadfastly refused to give up."
steadfastness: This is the noun form, referring to the quality of being steadfast. Example: "Her steadfastness in the face of adversity was admirable."
So, while "steadfast" remains unchanged, these related forms allow it to function in different grammatical roles within a sentence.
Definitions, Synonyms and Antonyms
Adjective:
Definition: Firm and unwavering in purpose, resolve, or loyalty; not easily moved or deterred. Characterized by resolute determination and commitment.
Synonyms: Resolute, unwavering, unyielding, determined, faithful, loyal, constant, staunch, dedicated, committed, persistent, persevering.
Antonyms: Vacillating, wavering, irresolute, fickle, changeable, inconstant, disloyal, wavering, hesitant, uncertain, yielding.
Example: "She maintained a steadfast belief in her own abilities, even when faced with setbacks."
Adverb:
Definition: In a steadfast manner; with unwavering resolve and determination. Unswervingly.
Synonyms: Resolutely, unwaveringly, determinedly, faithfully, loyally, constantly, staunchly, dedicatedly, committedly, persistently, perseveringly, firmly.
Antonyms: Vacillatingly, waveringly, irresolutely, fickly, changeably, inconstantly, disloyally, hesitantly, uncertainly.
Example: "He steadfastly refused to compromise his principles."
Noun (Steadfastness):
Definition: The quality of being steadfast; unwavering resolve, determination, and commitment. Firmness of purpose.
Synonyms: Resolute, determination, unwaveringness, firmness, loyalty, constancy, staunchness, dedication, commitment, persistence, perseverance, resolution.
Antonyms: Vacillation, wavering, irresolution, fickleness, changeability, inconstancy, disloyalty, hesitancy, uncertainty, yieldingness.
Example: "Her steadfastness in the face of adversity inspired those around her."
Examples of Use:
Books:
"He was admired for his steadfast loyalty to his friends." (This is a general example of how "steadfast" might be used in fiction. It's not a direct quote from a specific book but illustrates common usage.)
"Her steadfastness in pursuing her dreams, despite numerous rejections, ultimately led to her success." (Another general example illustrating usage in a narrative context.)
Newspapers/Online Publications:
"The company remains steadfast in its commitment to sustainable practices." (News article about a company's continued dedication. Imagine this in a business section of the Financial Times or similar.)
"Despite the criticism, the politician steadfastly defended their policies." (News report on a politician's unwavering stance. Could appear in any news outlet.)
"The community showed steadfastness in the face of the natural disaster, helping each other rebuild." (News story highlighting community resilience. Likely in a local or regional publication.)
Entertainment Mediums and Platforms:
"Through trials and tribulations, their love remained steadfast." (Dialogue from a romantic drama or novel. A common theme in storytelling.)
"The knight's steadfast courage inspired the troops." (Line from a fantasy novel, film, or video game. "Steadfast" is often associated with heroic characters.)
"The athlete's steadfast determination to win was evident in their training." (Commentary from a sports broadcast or article. "Steadfast" is often used to describe athletes.)
General Public Discourse:
"We need steadfast leadership during these challenging times." (Statement made in a political discussion or debate. Common usage in discussions about leadership.)
"My grandmother's steadfast belief in the importance of family has always been an inspiration to me." (Example from a personal anecdote or conversation. "Steadfast" can be used in everyday language.)
"I admire her steadfastness in pursuing her education while raising a family." (Another example from a personal context, highlighting someone's determination.)
10 Famous Quotes Using Steadfast
“Be steadfast in purpose, even when the path bends unexpectedly.” (Unknown)
“My mentor said a steadfast mind can outlast storms that would shatter a restless one.” (Unknown)
“Love remains strongest when it is steadfast, not dramatic.” (Unknown)
“History honors those who were steadfast when compromise meant collapse.” (Unknown)
“To build anything meaningful, be steadfast in the small tasks others overlook.” (Unknown)
“A warrior remains steadfast not because they feel no fear, but because they move despite it.” (Unknown)
“Faith becomes real when it stays steadfast in silence as well as celebration.” (Unknown)
“Do not admire convenience; admire the steadfast habits that shape destiny.” (Unknown)
“Leaders grow by being steadfast in principle but flexible in method.” (Unknown)
“The poet wrote that hope is a steadfast ember—quiet, persistent, never truly extinguished.” (Unknown)
Etymology
"Steadfast" is a compound word, meaning it's made up of two separate words joined together:
Stead: This part comes from Old English "stede," which meant "place," "position," or "support." Think of it like "standing your ground" in a certain "stead." Over time, "stead" came to imply firmness and reliability.
Fast: This part comes from Old Norse "fastr," meaning "firm," "fixed," or "secure." It's related to words like "fasten" and "fast." It adds to the idea of being unmovable and resolute.
So, put them together, and you get "steadfast," meaning firmly fixed in place (originally, perhaps literally), and by extension, firm and unwavering in purpose or loyalty.
The first known use of "steadfast" in written English dates back to around the 13th century. Its initial meaning was very close to its literal components: firm in position, unmoving. Over time, the meaning evolved to focus more on the metaphorical firmness of one's mind, resolve, or commitment. It shifted from describing physical stability to describing mental and emotional stability.
Think of it this way: first, it was about physically standing firm. Then, it became about mentally and emotionally standing firm, unswayed. That's the journey of the word "steadfast."
Phrases + Idioms Containing Steadfast
Phrases using "steadfast":
Steadfast in one's beliefs: This phrase emphasizes an unwavering adherence to one's convictions.
Steadfast commitment: This highlights a strong and unwavering dedication to a cause or person.
Steadfast against adversity: This describes someone who remains resolute in the face of challenges.
Steadfast gaze: This phrase paints a picture of someone looking forward with determination.
Steadfast friend: This denotes a loyal and reliable companion.
Idioms with Synonyms (capturing the spirit of "steadfast"):
Since "steadfast" implies unwavering resolve, we can look at idioms related to determination, commitment, and loyalty:
Stick to one's guns: This idiom means to remain firm in one's beliefs or course of action, even when faced with opposition. It captures the unyielding aspect of "steadfastness."
Hold the line: Similar to "stick to one's guns," this idiom means to maintain one's position or stance.
Stand one's ground: This idiom means to refuse to be moved or persuaded, showing a similar resolve to "steadfastness."
See it through: This phrase emphasizes the importance of completing a task despite difficulties, reflecting the perseverance associated with "steadfastness."
Through thick and thin: This idiom describes unwavering loyalty and support, similar to the "steadfast" loyalty one might have to a friend or cause.
Original Phrases/Figurative Uses:
"Her steadfast heart was a beacon in the storm." (Metaphorical use, comparing her unwavering spirit to a light.)
"He built his career on a foundation of steadfast dedication." (Figurative use, linking "steadfastness" to success.)
"The steadfast oak weathered every season." (Figurative use, comparing a tree's resilience to "steadfastness.")
Vocabulary-Based Stories from SEA
Source Information
Definition of steadfast from The Academic Glossary at Self Exploration Academy, a Urikville Press Publication. © All rights reserved.
