Virtue

Definition

Behavior showing high moral standards.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

IPA Pronunciation:

• US: /ˈvɜrˌtʃu/
• UK: /ˈvɜː.tʃuː/

Respellings:

• American: vur·choo
• British: vur·chew

Etymology

The word "virtue" is derived from Old French "vertu", from Latin "virtus" meaning 'valor, merit, moral perfection', related to "vir" meaning 'man'.

Derivatives

• Virtuous
• Virtuously
• Virtuosity
• Overvirtuous
• Virtueless

Synonyms

• Morality
• Goodness
• Righteousness

Antonyms

• Vice
• Immorality
• Sinfulness

Usage

• "Kindness is a virtue that is highly esteemed in many cultures."
• "In ancient philosophy, courage was considered one of the cardinal virtues."

Related Terms

• Ethic
• Integrity
• Principle
• Merit
• Honor

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Moral Excellence: A quality considered morally good or desirable in a person.
• Example: "Patience is often hailed as a virtue."

• Beneficial Quality: A good or useful quality of a thing.
• Example: "His plan has the virtue of being practical and cost-effective."

• Chastity: Specifically, the virtue of chastity, especially in women.
• Example: "She defended her virtue against the advances of the rogue."