What do fidelity mean Meaning and Definition
What do fidelity mean
Pronunciation
/fəˈdælɪti/
Part of Speech
Noun, adjective
Definition
A quality or state of being faithful, loyal, or dedicated to a person, cause, or commitment; the state of being true to one’s commitments, obligations, or promises.
Etymology
From Latin “fides”, meaning faith or trust.
Usage Notes
Fidelity can be used to describe a person’s commitment to their partner, their duty to their country, or their adherence to a set of principles. It can also refer to the accuracy or faithfulness of a representation, such as a translation or a copy.
Cultural References
The concept of fidelity is explored in literature and art throughout history, from Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to modern bestsellers like Fifty Shades of Grey. The theme of fidelity is also common in music, with many songs addressing the importance of loyalty and commitment in relationships.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- True to one’s oath
- Faithful to one’s word
Related Words or Phrases
- Loyalty
- Commitment
- Trust
Collocations
- take a vow of fidelity
- maintain fidelity to one’s principles
Frequency of Use
Fidelity is a somewhat formal term, but it is still widely used in modern language, particularly in philosophical, literary, and artistic contexts.
Common Misspellings
- Fidelty
- Fidelie