The word "staunch" mainly means steadfast in loyalty, principle, or support for a person, organization, or belief. It describes someone who is firm, faithful, and resolute, not easily swayed from their position. For example, a "staunch supporter" means a very loyal and dependable supporter. Additionally, "staunch" can also be used as a verb meaning to stop or check the flow of something, especially blood or liquid, similar to "stanch." For example, to "staunch the bleeding" means to stop the bleeding. In summary:

• As an adjective, "staunch" means loyal, faithful, and firmly committed.
• As a verb, it means to stop the flow of a liquid or blood.

This dual usage comes from the notion of standing firm or stopping flow, originating from old French and Latin roots.