FAITH Synonyms: 129 Similar and Opposite Words

Q: How is the word 'faith' different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of faith are belief , credence , and credit . While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof. // an unshakable faith in God

Q: When can 'belief' be used instead of 'faith'?

While the synonyms belief and faith are close in meaning, belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer. // my belief that I had caught all the errors

Q: When is 'credence' a more appropriate choice than 'faith'?

Although the words credence and faith have much in common, credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent. // a theory now given credence by scientists

Q: When is it sensible to use 'credit' instead of 'faith'?

While in some cases nearly identical to faith , credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof. // gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

faith

noun

ˈfāth

Definition of faith

as in religion

belief and trust in and loyalty to God a people who are known for their strong and steadfast faith

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as in cult

a body of beliefs and practices regarding the supernatural and the worship of one or more deities the city of Jerusalem is sacred to three faiths: Christianity, Islam, and Judaism

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as in allegiance

adherence to something to which one is bound by a pledge or duty after they had to declare bankruptcy, the family found out how much faith their friends had

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as in confidence

firm belief in the integrity, ability, effectiveness, or genuineness of someone or something never having had much faith in banks, the old miser kept his money under the mattress

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as in belief

mental conviction of the truth of some statement or the reality of some being or phenomenon she has complete faith that the universe is controlled by a benevolent Supreme Being with a master plan

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Synonym Chooser

How is the word faith different from other nouns like it?

Some common synonyms of faith are belief, credence, and credit. While all these words mean "assent to the truth of something offered for acceptance," faith almost always implies certitude even where there is no evidence or proof.

an unshakable faith in God

When can belief be used instead of faith?

While the synonyms belief and faith are close in meaning, belief may or may not imply certitude in the believer.

my belief that I had caught all the errors

When is credence a more appropriate choice than faith?

Although the words credence and faith have much in common, credence suggests intellectual assent without implying anything about grounds for assent.

a theory now given credence by scientists

When is it sensible to use credit instead of faith?

While in some cases nearly identical to faith, credit may imply assent on grounds other than direct proof.

gave full credit to the statement of a reputable witness

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of faith Most every weekend, Hurst returns to Kaskaskia, part of an aging congregation whose faith is the only thing that doesn’t remain in danger of washing away. — Andrew Carter, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026 His faith rests on the country’s record of resilience, capitalism and innovation, a system that has repeatedly turned human creativity into economic growth. — Robert Daugherty, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026 To complete this daunting task, Cruise's character Tom Hunt sported special suction gloves in order to reach the 130th floor of the 2,722-foot skyscraper before rappelling down and concluding with a giant leap of faith. — Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 3 July 2026 Candace Cameron Bure Candace Cameron Bure, who is a devout Christian, often combines expressions of faith with messages celebrating America. — Ashley Hume, FOXNews.com, 3 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for faith

Recent Examples of Synonyms for faith

Noun

If religion is corrupted by breaking down the wall of separation, much the same is true of the state.

— Kenneth Seeskin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Hinduism is a narrative religion; its mercurial wisdom is lightened and sweetened by stories, softened by ambiguities, sharpened by paradoxes.

— Chandrahas Choudhury, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 July 2026

Definition of religion

Noun

Beginning on that day, Mercury invites everyone - creators, agencies, executives, and follow networks - to pledge their allegiance to Independent Podcasters Day via their website.

— Frank Racioppi, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Gabriel Zakuani, the former Peterborough United defender who made 29 appearances for DR Congo in the previous decade, played an important role in convincing Wan-Bissaka to switch international allegiance.

— Roshane Thomas, New York Times, 2 July 2026

Definition of allegiance

Noun

While bouncing between the G League and the NBA, James worked with coaches on developing his shooting confidence, quick decision-making and defensive ability.

— Broderick Turner, Los Angeles Times, 1 July 2026
The emotional Moon squaring disciplined Saturn this morning tests timing and boundaries, yet Leo’s warmth helps restore confidence as the day unfolds.

— Tarot.com, Chicago Tribune, 30 June 2026

Definition of confidence

Noun

As Jupiter and Chiron clash, explore new beliefs or ideas without committing to them – yet.

— USA TODAY, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Beyond the importance of education, he was also motivated by his own beliefs about the role of wealth in society and China’s national development.

— Russell Flannery, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026

Definition of belief

Noun

To his supporters, Iran’s late Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was the steadfast, fearless leader who transcended mere politics and inspired devotion.

— Xiaoqian Lin, CNN Money, 6 July 2026
What makes these behaviors especially dangerous is that they’re often disguised as concern or devotion.

— Mark Travers, CNBC, 5 July 2026

Definition of devotion

Noun

The combined airline will eventually operate under the Allegiant brand, with changes to booking, loyalty and the travel experience still ahead.

— Zach Wichter, USA Today, 7 July 2026
Out of loyalty to her father, Rhaenyra refuses, eventually deciding to send him north to the Wall.

— Amanda Whiting, Vulture, 6 July 2026

Definition of loyalty

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fairy tales

faith

faithful

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“Faith.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/faith. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of faith

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Synonyms of faith

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More from Merriam-Webster on faith

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Word of the Day

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Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

Why is '-ed' sometimes pronounced at the end of a word?

Commonly Misspelled Words

How to Use Em Dashes (—), En Dashes (–) , and Hyphens (-)

Popular in Wordplay

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Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

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The Longest Long Words List

Games & Quizzes