The word "staunch" is pronounced as /stɔːntʃ/ or "stawntch". The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky for some as it features the "au" and "ch" digraphs. The "au" sound is a diphthong, which means it starts as a short "o" sound and finishes with a short "a" sound. The "ch" sound is a voiceless postalveolar affricate, formed by combining "t" and "sh". Despite its spelling, "staunch" has nothing to do with "launch" and means to be loyal, faithful, or steadfast.
Staunch is an adjective that can be used to describe someone or something unwavering and loyal, displaying strong and steadfast support. It denotes a person or thing that is reliable, dependable, and resolute in their commitment or beliefs.
When referring to a person, staunch indicates someone who is extremely loyal and dedicated to a particular cause, ideology, or person. Such individuals are typically unwavering in their support, often actively defending the subject of their loyalty. A staunch friend, for example, is fiercely loyal and trustworthy, always standing up for and supporting their friends in times of need.
When describing a thing, staunch denotes something that is solid, strong, and immovable. For instance, a staunch defense or a staunch ally implies an unwavering, steadfast, and resolute support or protection. In this context, staunch emphasizes the stability, reliability, and durability of the object being referenced, suggesting that it can be counted on even in challenging circumstances.
Overall, staunch is used to describe individuals or objects that demonstrate unwavering dedication, loyalty, and reliability. It conveys a sense of dependability, steadfastness, and resoluteness, emphasizing the strength with which a person or thing stands by their beliefs or commitments.
Sound; firm in principles, or in the support of a cause; trusty; zealous.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word "staunch" derives from the Old English word "stanch", meaning "strong" or "firm". It is ultimately derived from the Proto-Germanic word "stankhwaz", which means "strong" or "stiff". The sense of loyalty or steadfastness associated with "staunch" developed in Middle English.