leal

American  

[leel] / lil /

adjective

Scot.

1. loyal; true.

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leal British  

/ liːl, ˈliːəltɪ /

adjective

1. loyal; faithful

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Other Word Forms

• leally adverb
• lealty noun

Etymology

Origin of leal

1250–1300; Middle English leel < Old French < Latin lēgālis legal; loyal

Explanation

Someone who's leal is devoted and dependable. Your most leal pal in the whole world is your closest, most trusted friend. The adjective leal is so old fashioned that not many people use it these days, but if you want an unusual way to describe someone who's steadfast and loyal, leal is perfect. You might talk about your leal dog, for example, who stays close by even when he's not on a leash. Leal is a Scottish word, originally spelled lele, from Middle English and dating from about 1300. For centuries, it filled in for for the word loyal in Scotland.

Example Sentences

“It is doing nothing that is hard, Uncle. Set a task for us, any task, and you shall find us as leal and obedient as any prince could hope for.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

“You would do best to walk a middle course. Let men earn your trust with leal service ... but when they do, be generous and openhearted.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

“Dagmer Cleftjaw holds Torrhen’s Square. A fierce fighter, and a leal servant of House Greyjoy. I can deliver that castle to you, and its garrison as well.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

“I keep no secrets from my kin, nor from my leal lords and knights, good friends all.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin

“Your Grace, I have the honor to be Quentyn Martell, a prince of Dome and your most leal subject.”

From "A Dance with Dragons" by George R. R. Martin