staunch
UK: stɔːntʃ | US: stɔːntʃ
adj. 1. Loyal and committed in attitude (e.g., a staunch supporter).
adj. 2. Strong or substantial in construction (e.g., a staunch door).
vt. 1. To stop the flow of liquid, especially blood (e.g., staunch a wound).
The word "staunch" originates from Old French estanchier (to stop, quench), derived from Vulgar Latin stanticare, a derivative of Latin stāre (to stand). The core idea is "standing firm," which evolved into both physical strength (e.g., sturdy construction) and metaphorical steadfastness (loyalty). The verb form ("to stop blood") reflects the original sense of halting flow.
She remained a staunch advocate for human rights.
The castle's staunch walls withstood the siege.
The medic used a bandage to staunch the bleeding.
His staunch beliefs made him resistant to persuasion.
The ship's staunch design ensured it survived the storm.