Allegiance refers to the obligation of faithfulness, i.e., of fidelity , that a citizen owes his country or his sovereign in return for the benefits and privileges he receives by virtue of his citizenship. Allegiance is now widely used to refer to any similar obligation a person feels, as to a principle or a political leader.

• In the Declaration of Independence, the American colonists renounced their allegiance to the British Crown; a lasting allegiance to this political party.

Fealty is used specifically of the feudal obligation a vassal owed his lord. The oath of fealty expressed both allegiance and fidelity .

Fidelity implies a strong and faithful dedication; His fidelity to the principles of justice never wavered. Loyalty is more often associated with personal relationships than is fidelity . Where fidelity suggests adherence, loyalty points to devotion. It emphasizes a profoundly personal commitment.

• His judgement was frequently faulty, but his loyalty to the nation could not be questioned; Company loyalty made him turn down many attractive job offers.