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Top 23 Symbols of Loyalty & Their Meanings

Top 23 Symbols of Loyalty & Their Meanings

True loyalty takes years to build and only seconds to destroy. While it is a precious attribute that may not be well-reciprocated sometimes in life, we bring you the top 23 symbols of loyalty and their meanings in which you can, forever, find the truest of loyalty. 

Much like Mulan, who was loyal, brave, and accurate, our rundown of the top 23 symbols of loyalty includes colors, flowers, animals, birds, astrological signs, gods from various Pantheons, Disney characters, and some modern picks – like Hollywood film characters! 

Buckle up, take that bucket of popcorn, and read through our list of the top 23 symbols of loyalty – loyally, of course. 

Colors

It should not come as a surprise that colors are used to represent human emotions and character traits.

People claiming to see into others’ auras often use colors to attribute what they see to the person they see it for. While red means stop, yellow ready, and green go other colors such as pink and green are referred to as feminine and nurturing, respectively. 

But no color says loyalty like our friend blue.

1. The Color Blue

Light blue wave art.
Light blue wave art
Image via Jorge Guillen de Pixabay

That’s right. The color blue, while an obvious representation of water, cold, ice (sometimes icy menace), or the calm of the oceans and freedom of the skies, is also a symbol of loyalty.

Light blue, artists believe, is a representation of peacefulness. Dark blue, on the other hand, is known to represent power and strength.

For some, blue is also a sign of royalty (hint, royal blue) and a sense of regalness. Blue is also the color of intelligence and being reserved. 

And of course, shouting out to all the guys out there, blue represents masculinity and is often the go-to color for all things guys. A lot of girls like blue, too, like Cinderella and, well, Elsa from Frozen. So, let’s just Let it Go, shall we? Blue is for everyone. 

There are sadly no other colors that are specifically known to represent loyalty.

Flowers

Get your gardening tools out, for we are going for a garden stroll!

Flowers can be the perfect gift. While most associate them with valentines, get-well-soon, hospital goodies, and funerals, it can be pretty awkward if you don’t know what kind of flower goes for which type of situation.

For example, if you give someone a bunch of yellow carnations, that is one sure way to ensure they know you are rejecting them or, as the famous saying goes, “kicking them to the curb.” Best not to do that. 

Just like black roses are a symbol of death and dying love, there are six flowers most commonly known to represent loyalty. You will be surprised, though, to learn some of the other things they represent. 

2. Chrysanthemum

A bunch of Chrysanthemums.
A bunch of Chrysanthemums
Image courtesy: piqsels.com

Chrysanthemums are known to symbolize several things across different cultures and countries. Loyalty is chiefly one of them. 

If looking Chrysanthemum up on a thesaurus for flowers, you will come across friendship, devotion, longevity, death, cheerfulness and goodness in small things.

In some places, they have also been used as symbols for beauty, contentment, and joy. Here are some interesting facts you probably didn’t know about mums – that is also their name, by the way, for Chry-san-the-mum is quite a mouthful.

They are the national flower of Japan! Which is a shocker for most people who believe cherry blossom flowers are the country’s national flower. Here is some clarity: Cherry Blossoms are Japan’s national tree.

In China, they are one of the four gentlemen, which according to Confucius, are noblemen, and mums represent one.

In Australia, though, Chrysanthemums are the official flower for Mother’s Day. 

3. Helianthus

Sunflower against a blue sky.
Sunflower against a blue sky
Fir0002, GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons

What the Helianthus is a Helianthus? 

Sunflower. 

A genus of about seventy species known to us, sunflowers belong to the daisy family. In the Netflix movie, “Sierra Burges is a Loser”, Sunflowers have portrayed a somewhat positive message: self-love.

We all should love ourselves for who and what we are and keep company with those who love us precisely for what we are instead of chasing after roses or trying to be like them.

Sunflowers are also symbols of faithfulness, adoration, and worship.

Because they wilt in the dark and light up in the sun‘s direction, they are also associated with basking in the sun and “enjoying happiness while it lasts” and positivity (wilting in the dark, but rising with the sun – positivity!). 

Our loyal sunflowers have also been featured in a painting by Vincent Van Gogh called Van Gogh’s Sunflowers. 

Bonus fact: Remember Sunflora, the pokemon? 

4. Leontopodium

Leontopodium.
Leontopodium
Böhringer Friedrich, CC BY-SA 2.5, via Wikimedia Commons

We bet you have not heard of this one. We will tell you what its other, more commonly-known name is – its Edelweiss.

This flower looks great in photos. However, it might – it just might – creep you out a bit upon closer inspection.

There are around forty species of this flower, and it is known to grow in challenging environments, places tourists and explorers might not frequent, which is why it doesn’t have much of a fanbase. 

Leontopodium, however, symbolize deep loyalty, infamy, purity, love, and kindness. 

If you want to give someone a confusing flower as a gift, we bet Leontopodium should be your choice. However, you will have to head over to the Alps, for it is known that you will come across these while mountaineering there – although rarely. 

5. Potentilla

Potentilla flowers.
Potentilla flowers
Olivier Pichard, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Flower number four has got to have the weirdest name. 

The black sheep of the rose family, Potentillas, are potentially attractive to several insects and birds, which is why their pollination rates are much higher than those of other flowers.

Potentillas are exceptionally adaptive to heat and are known for their long-time bloom – among botanists.

Potentillas symbolize power and strength. They are also a symbol of maternal love and, loyalty. 

6. Scilla 

Scilla flowers.
Scilla flowers
Photo of jggrz by Pixabay

We have a very unique set of flowers on our list. 

Scilla, which means “sea onion” from its Latin counterpart, also means exciting or injuring. Be sure to remember this flower when you are feeling scintillated.

For something attributed to exciting others, Scillas sure have ironic medicinal uses. For one, it is used for pest control and is effective in killing rats. But then again, it is also associated with injury

Don’t try to plant these flowers in your garden, though, for scillas are highly invasive and can grow out of control if allowed. 

7. Veronica

Large Speedwell flowers.
Large Speedwell flowers
Photo by Hans Braxmeier from Pixabay

Finally, a not so weird name. In fact, it is not weird at all. 

The name is derived from that of an Italian saint, Saint Veronica. It also references the “Veil of Veronica,” which was considered the most authentic representation of Jesus Christ in the old days.

This is why fidelity is often attributed to this flower. And with fidelity, loyalty. 

Veronicas are also known as Speedwells. 

Animals

Time for some animals. 

We know all you dog lovers are up and at the prospect of guessing which animals have made it to this list.

Yes, your precious dogs are on it, too. In fact, we all love dogs, do we not? But some other animals are known for their loyalty in particular.

8. Dogs

A woman with her loyal dog.
A woman with her loyal dog
Photo by Sven Lachmann from Pixabay

Dogs are top-of-the-mind when we talk about loyalty. There is countless proof of why dogs are a man’s best friend.

Hachiko, anyone? Dogs are perfect companions, attentive to detail, and are even helpful in spotting unfamiliarity, which is why they are a must for every house to chase away robbers.

Children find puppies enjoyable. It is recommended by therapists that there should always be a pet in the house to teach children kindness and compassion

9. Dolphins

Pair of dolphins.
Two dolphins in a pool
Photo by Pexels of Pixabay

A visit to your nearest dolphin show should be proof enough of how friendly dolphins are. However, there is evidence to suggest that they are loyal; but friendship and loyalty go hand in hand.

It is said, though, that divers have often been saved by dolphins when under attack by sharks. If another one of their kind is in danger, these dolphins have been known to come to the aid of their friend in need.

10.  Wolf

Pack of wolves on snow.
Pack of wolves on snow
Photo by JC of Pixabay

If wolves were human friends, they would be those softies on the inside but tough on the outside kind of friends. The loyalty of a wolf is of a different type than its dog counterpart.

They are more by-your-side-till-death kind of loyal. We see this in another animal, too, weirdly: lions.

Wolves travel in packs and are more loyal to one another than anybody else. 

11. Chimpanzee

Chimpanzee closeup.
Chimpanzee closeup
Photo by Republica of Pixabay

Chimpanzees are an odd addition to this list, but we sure are glad they made the cut. Chimps are known for the lovingness they carry with them.

If they don’t like you, though, then they will let you know. And you will find out. But mostly, chimpanzees are perfect friends.

Since friendship and loyalty go hand in hand, these arboreal primates are often associated with and attributed to loyalty. 

12. Elephant

Mother and baby elephant.
Mother and baby elephant
Photo by jakkarin manwicha from Pixabay

Elephants travel in herds and are rarely seen on their own, their loyalty parallels that of the wolves.

Even when required to be separated, they scatter in groups and are always willing to lend support to other herds should they come across any.

There have been instances, though, where trapped antelopes have been rescued by Elephants using their trunks. 

Who doesn’t love Elephants? Specifically elephant babies. And Dumbo, of course.

13. Horse

Portrait of three horses.
Portrait of three horses
Image Courtesy: Pexels

The horse is a animal that has consistently been near people. The horse represents unwavering loyalty to people, supporting us in a wide range of assignments.

Over time, its work has assisted us with getting around or conveying objects, making our lives simpler. Additionally, the feeling connections among individuals and horses have consistently been solid.

14. Bee

 Bee sucking at nectar.
Bee sucking at nectar
Image Courtesy: PxHere

While they might get violent upon being provoked, Bees are certainly not friendly to humans, let alone loyal to them.

We have a symbiotic relationship with them, though, what with Apiculture and all. Loyalty in bees is found with the worker-bee-queen-bee concept.

The queen bee is revered and even protected should there be an attack. While on her throne, the queen has her loyal subjects doing her work. 

If the hive were a multinational firm, the queen bee would be the CEO, of course; the board of directors probably killed or disposed of. 

Birds

Birds of a feather flock together.

While this idiom is used for human beings, it holds more true for birds than for us. Birds always fly in flocks, and you rarely find one lost, which adds to their whole staying together. 

There is only one bird most known for its loyalty, and it is the swan. 

15. Swan

Swan in a pond.
Swan in a pond
Photo of徐 志 友of Pixabay

The swan searches for an accomplice or a mate, and once it discovers one, it consumes its entire time on earth with this accomplice or mate, exhibiting outright constancy.

Companionship, love, and devotion are entwined in their relationship, which, once started, are only breakable by death.

Astrological Signs

It is time for the Zodiac now. 

While most believe astrology is pseudoscientific, many have a home for the “science” in their hearts. Horoscopes are one of the most searched things on the internet, and several online astrologers depend on such clicks and views for a living. 

We have identified three horoscopes to be ample identifiers of loyalty.  

16. Libra

Libra zodiac sign.
Libra zodiac sign
Photo by Clker-Free-Vector-Images of Pixabay

Administered by Venus, planetary goddess of magnificence, congruity, and delight, beguiling Libra loves to be adored.

And keeping in mind that they’re lively and coy essentially (Libra’s snickers will prevail upon any heart), the grandiose scales long for equilibrium and security in their connections.

In the wake of lining up with their scholarly and enthusiastic match, Libra is unceasingly steadfast. 

Without a doubt, the air signs love a stylish light or a heartfelt robe, yet Libra’s connections are their most loved belongings. Recall rapidly referencing to Libra that you had a last test of the year coming up?

The Zodiac’s darlings recall each tiny detail, conveying your #1 blossoms and a high-quality card on an enormous day.

Libra puts companions on a gold platform and sees them in their most brilliant light. Also, since Libra acquires their ability to be self-aware through their association with others, they need to realize that you appreciate them, as well.

Libra can’t bear you considering them to be impolite or backstabbing, so rely on them to disclose to you the amount they care each and every day.

17. Taurus

Taurus zodiac sign.
Taurus zodiac sign

As earth signs, Taureans are established in everyday practice and mitigated by life’s primary joys. While the prophetic bulls are particular with their team, Taurus watches out for their dear fellowships with persistence and care (like their plant assortment).

Influenced by their Venusian impact, Taurus utilizes each main avenue for affection to communicate their reliability. To Taurus, “stay in contact” doesn’t mean visiting over lunch once like clockwork.

It implies they need to embrace you consistently for the remainder of their lives. (Simply don’t call them tenacious, okay?) Whether they’re electing to drive you to an arrangement or preparing your fantasy breakfast, Taureans are the most dependable signs in the Zodiac.

They’re in every case nearby when you need viable counsel and a grounded viewpoint. Film evenings, 12 PM strolls, frozen yoghurt dates—Taurus won’t ever feel burnt out on the significant customs you’ve both implicit in your relationship (mainly when they include food).

18. Scorpio

Scorpio zodiac sign.
Scorpio zodiac sign

Alongside their essential kin, Cancer and Pisces, Scorpio is a water sign. You can think about these fall-conceived companions as solid, strong ice sheets.

While on a superficial level, they’re agreeable and gathered, there’s an entire universe of passionate profundity we can’t see underneath. Scorpio’s steadfastness streams from their earnest sympathy and instinct. 

At the point when you pick up the telephone, your Scorpio accomplice doesn’t simply hear “Hello there.” They listen carefully, keep thinking about whether your supervisor gave you trouble at work, and wildly plan a night out where you can spill out your most profound apprehensions.

Scorpios will forfeit their own prosperity to secure the ones they love. Governed by Pluto, the divine image of resurrection, battle, and change, there isn’t anything you can say or do to frighten Scorpio off.

Their natural strength permits them to walk connected at the hip with you through your most obscure minutes and stick with you until they go to the light.

Gods

Of all the gods and all the Pantheons, we have only one particular god of loyalty.

19. Sancus

Illustration of a statue of Sancus, from the Sabine's shrine.
Illustration of a statue of Sancus, from the Sabine’s shrine.
Rodolfo Lanciani, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Sancus, in recorded Roman mythology, is regarded as the god of honesty, loyalty, and oaths, 

Animated Characters

More often than not, children tend to learn from what the cartoons they watch teach them. It’s a tricky bit of business, and parents need to be careful about what they let their kids watch, especially when loyalty is involved.

There are quite a few Disney characters that represent loyalty. 

20. Mulan

Mulan at Disneyland theme park in California.
Mulan at Disneyland theme park in California
mydisneyadventures, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

No one does loyal, brave, and trustworthy like Mulan. To win favor with her father, Mulan sets out, breaking the rules, assuming an identity and practically breaking the law to win her father’s heart.

While her actions, in the beginning, aren’t strictly very loyal, she does what she does out of loyalty to her father and family. 

21. Anna

Anna meet-and-greets at Disneyland theme park.
Anna meet-and-greets at Disneyland theme park
MaddyInDisneyland, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Anna from Frozen is a character not often spoken about, overshadowed by her icy counterpart.

Any other sister would have jumped at the chance to be a queen with Elsa out of the picture, but Anna stays loyal to her sibling and fights for her through her adversity.

A symbol of the purest loyalty, indeed. 

22. Flounder

Ariel holding Flounder from the Little Mermaid at Comikaze Expo.
Ariel holding Flounder from the Little Mermaid at Comikaze Expo
The Conmunity – Pop Culture Geek from Los Angeles, CA, USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

If you’ve ever watched The Little Mermaid you’ll notice that Flounder is the most perfect representation of loyalty, supporting Ariel without hesitation. 

23. Timon and Pumbaa

And finally, another great symbol of loyalty is Timon and Pumbaa from the Lion King, with Pumbaa’s loyalty to Simba being unmatched.

Summary

These were our top 23 symbols of loyalty and their meanings. Be sure to let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

See Also: Flowers That Symbolize Loyalty

References

  • http://changingminds.org/disciplines/communication/color_effect.html
  • https://www.atozflowers.com/flower-tags/loyalty/
  • https://www.lefrontal.com/en/animals-that-symbolize-friendship-and-loyalty

Header image courtesy: Photo on Photostockeditor