noun
loyalist
LOY-uh-lihst
Loyalist (noun) means a person who stays firmly loyal to an existing government, ruler, or cause, especially during a rebellion or conflict. Example: “Many loyalists fled to Canada after the American Revolution.”
noun
1
A person who stays firmly loyal to an existing government, ruler, or cause, especially during a rebellion or conflict.
"Many loyalists fled to Canada after the American Revolution."
"The loyalists in the civil war refused to join the uprising."
How to use loyalist
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who backs the established side rather than rebels or reformers.
UK vs US
In Northern Ireland, "Loyalist" (capitalized) refers specifically to those supporting continued union with the UK.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
party loyalist
loyalist forces
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Word forms
- Plural
- loyalists
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Many _____ fled to Canada after the American Revolution.
Etymology
Formed from "loyal" plus the agent suffix "-ist."
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for loyalist
realist
vocalist
idealist
finalist
medalist
socialist
herbalist
mentalist
capitalist
journalist
specialist
naturalist
See all rhymes for loyalist →
Frequently asked questions
What does “loyalist” mean?
The word “loyalist” means a person who stays firmly loyal to an existing government, ruler, or cause, especially during a rebellion or conflict. In plain terms, someone who backs the established side rather than rebels or reformers.
How do you pronounce “loyalist”?
“Loyalist” is pronounced LOY-uh-lihst (/ˈlɔɪəlɪst/ in IPA).
How do you use “loyalist” in a sentence?
Here is “loyalist” used in a sentence: “Many loyalists fled to Canada after the American Revolution.”
What part of speech is “loyalist”?
“Loyalist” is a noun.
