What term is used to define loyalty to a country or cause?

The term that is used to define loyalty to a country or cause is allegiance. Allegiance signifies a person's dedication and fidelity to the sovereignty of their nation or to a particular cause, emphasizing the notion of loyalty as a principle of support and commitment. It often encompasses elements such as loyalty to government, nations, or various ideologies that individuals choose to uphold, and is a foundational concept in understanding civic duty and patriotism.

While devotion and commitment may relate to loyalty, they are broader terms that can apply to various contexts beyond just national loyalty. Patriotism specifically expresses love and pride for one's country, but allegiance captures the essence of loyalty in a more formal and significant manner. Therefore, allegiance is the most precise term in the context of loyalty to a country or cause.