fidelity
- 1How exactly something matches or copies the original, like a sound system or a translation.
The fidelity of these cheap headphones is surprisingly good.
The old tape lost some fidelity each time it was copied.
UsageSay high fidelity or hi-fi for good sound.
Similaraccuracy, faithfulness, precision, exactness
Oppositeinaccuracy, distortion, imprecision
- 2Staying loyal to your duties, to a person, or to a cause or promise.
The guard was praised for his fidelity to his post.
The nurse was honored for her fidelity to her duties.
UsageSay fidelity to something.
Similarloyalty, faithfulness, devotion, allegiance, dedication
Oppositedisloyalty, infidelity
Note
- 3Staying loyal to your husband, wife, or partner and not cheating on them.
They promised each other fidelity on their wedding day.
She never doubted her partner's fidelity, even when he traveled for work.
UsageThe opposite is infidelity.
Similarfaithfulness, loyalty
Oppositeinfidelity, unfaithfulness
Practice
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Origin
It comes from the Latin word fidēlitās, meaning "faithfulness." That word was made from fidēlis, "faithful," which came from fidēs, "faith."