IPA: /ˈstɔːl.wət/
KK: /ˈstɔl.wɚt/
Strong and determined; showing loyalty and support.
He remained a stalwart supporter of the team through thick and thin.
A person who is strong and loyal, especially in supporting a cause or organization.
The stalwart supporters of the charity worked tirelessly to raise funds.
Stalwart originates from Middle English 'stalworth' (meaning steadfast or strong), which is derived from the Old English 'stalweard' (meaning place-guard or strong). The word combines 'stal' (meaning place) and 'weard' (meaning guard). Thus, stalwart refers to someone who is strong and steadfast, guarding their position or beliefs.
Think of someone who is a strong 'guard' ('weard') of their 'place' ('stal') — that's why stalwart means steadfast and strong.