Fidelity

Fidelity refers to the quality of being faithful or loyal to a person, organization, cause, or duty. It implies a reliable, steadfast commitment and truthfulness in word and action. The concept is used across ethics, law, relationships, and various fields.

In personal relationships, fidelity often denotes sexual faithfulness and exclusivity, but it also encompasses general trust, honesty, and reliability in maintaining commitments to a partner. Infidelity is commonly understood as a breach of this faithfulness and can have social and emotional consequences.

In information and media, fidelity describes the accuracy with which a representation reproduces the original source. High-fidelity, abbreviated hi-fi, refers to high-quality sound reproduction. The term also applies to imaging, video, and data transmission, where higher fidelity means less distortion or loss.

In law and finance, fidelity can describe loyalty to a duty or obligation, as in fiduciary duty, where professionals must act in the best interests of others. Fidelity Investments is a major American financial services company offering investment products and retirement accounts.

Other uses include fidelity to a constitution, laws, or promises. The notion of fidelity underpins ideas of integrity, trust, and accountability across cultures and disciplines.