# staunch

/ˈstɔntʃ/ (US) · /stˈɔːntʃ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/staunch
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

very loyal and committed to a person, belief, or group. You use this to describe someone who stays supportive even when things get difficult.

For teachers: firm and steadfast in principle, adherence, or loyalty. Often used to describe political supporters, religious believers, or personal allies.

## Examples

- She has always been a staunch supporter of the local library.
- Despite the team's losing streak, their staunch fans continued to fill the stadium every weekend.
- The senator remained a staunch advocate for environmental reform throughout her thirty-year career, refusing to compromise even under intense corporate pressure.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He is a stanch supporter." but "He is a staunch supporter." — While 'stanch' is a variant spelling, 'staunch' is the standard form for the adjective meaning loyal; 'stanch' is more commonly reserved for the verb meaning to stop the flow of liquid.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun like 'supporter', 'ally', or 'defender'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.