staunch (
http://definr.com/staunch)
adj : firm and dependable especially in loyalty; "a steadfast
ally"; "a staunch defender of free speech"; "unswerving
devotion"; "unswerving allegiance" [syn:
steadfast,
unswerving]
v : as of the flow of a liquid flowing, such as blood from a
wound [syn:
stem,
stanch,
halt]