allegiance
uh-LEE-juns
/əˈliːdʒəns/
Loyalty or commitment of a subordinate to a superior or of an individual to a group or nation.
Stresses formal, sworn binding duty or legal obligation rather than mere emotional affection.
The story behind the word. From Anglo-Norman French alegaunce, derived from liege, describing the bond between a feudal vassal and his lord. The root connects to Latin ligare ('to bind'), meaning a liege-man was legally bound in duty.
Word relationships
- patriotism: Patriotism is emotional affection for one's country; allegiance is a binding legal or moral duty of loyalty.
- disloyalty: Disloyalty is a breach of commitment or allegiance.
Commonly confused with
- patriotism: Allegiance emphasizes formal obligation and sworn loyalty, while patriotism emphasizes affection.
Word family
- allegiant (adjective): Fulfilling the duties of a loyal subject.
Collocations
- pledge allegiance
- swear allegiance
- switch allegiance
Idioms & expressions
- pledge of allegiance
Example sentences
- "New citizens raised their right hands and swore an oath of allegiance to their adopted country." Naturalization ceremony
Memory hook
An ALLY owes ALLEGIANCE to their leader. Bound by loyalty and oath.
When not to use
Avoid for casual preferences like preferring one sports team over another.
Fun facts
- The US Pledge of Allegiance was written in 1892 by Francis Bellamy to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's arrival.
Related words
Also appears in
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