stanch vs staunch
Definitions
verb
- stop the flow of a liquid
Examples
They acted as an anchorage for the stanchions which, standing on the seabed, supported the harbours.
Summary: Although staunch is the most common spelling of the adjective meaning “firm” and stanch is the most common spelling of the verb meaning “stop (the flow)”, both spellings are acceptable for both meanings.
She fell to her knees and tried to stanch it with her hands, but the blood poured through her fingers.
Definitions
adjective
- firm and dependable especially in loyalty
verb
- stop the flow of a liquid
Examples
I was born into a staunch Roman Catholic family and was indoctrinated with those beliefs as I grew up.
Cecil was a staunch Protestant but, like the king, took a relatively tolerant attitude towards Catholics.
Summary: Although staunch is the most common spelling of the adjective meaning “firm” and stanch is the most common spelling of the verb meaning “stop (the flow)”, both spellings are acceptable for both meanings.
