devoted
dih-VOH-tid
/dɪˈvoʊ.tɪd/
Extremely loving and loyal; dedicated whole-heartedly to a person, cause, or activity.
Combines intense affection with steady, unshakeable loyalty and active service.
The story behind the word. Formed from Latin 'de-' (formally) and 'vovere' (to vow). Originally, a 'devoted' person was someone consecrated or dedicated to a deity through a solemn vow. Later, it expanded to describe romantic and familial loyalty.
Word relationships
- loyal: Loyal emphasizes steadfast allegiance to duty or allegiance, whereas devoted adds strong emotional warmth and love.
- dedicated: Dedicated often applies to work or goals, while devoted strongly highlights interpersonal love and commitment.
- faithless: Faithless implies a lack of loyalty or breaking commitments.
- unfaithful: Unfaithful means betraying trust or romantic duty.
Commonly confused with
- pious: Pious refers specifically to religious reverence, whereas devoted applies broadly to loved ones, tasks, or beliefs.
Word family
- devote (verb): To give time or affection entirely to something.
- devotion (noun): Love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person or cause.
- devotedly (adverb): In a committed and loving manner.
Collocations
- devoted husband
- devoted follower
- deeply devoted
Idioms & expressions
- devoted body and soul
Example sentences
- "He was a devoted father who spent every weekend supporting his children's endeavors." Professional or personal dedication
- "The scholar remained devoted to deciphering ancient manuscripts throughout her forty-year career." Artistic calling
Memory hook
DEVOTED people make a VOW to stick by you. Bound by a promise of constant love.
When not to use
Do not use for casual preferences or short-lived hobbies.
Fun facts
- In ancient Roman history, 'devotio' was a ritual where a general sacrificed his life to the gods to guarantee victory.
Related words
Also appears in
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