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Definition of virtuous

virtuous

/ˈvɜːr.tʃu.əs/
vir · tu · ous
Adverb:virtuously
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virtuous Lexical Profile

virtuous Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Having or showing high moral standards, righteousness, and ethical integrity.

Example

"She was widely admired in the community for leading a generous and virtuous life."

2

Chaste or sexually pure, traditionally used in reference to a woman.

Example

"In Victorian literature, the heroine was almost always portrayed as modest and virtuous."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for virtuous
Antonyms
View all antonyms for virtuous

Word Nuance & Usage

Do not confuse 'virtuous' (having high moral standards) with 'virtuosic' (displaying exceptional artistic or technical skill, derived from 'virtuoso'). Additionally, in modern informal usage, calling someone 'virtuous' can sometimes carry an ironic or slightly pejorative connotation of being self-righteous or sanctimonious.

• Rhymes for virtuous

• Nearby Words

virtually
virtue
virtuoso
virtuous
virtuously
virtuousness
virulence

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the 14th century from Old French 'vertuos', from Late Latin 'virtuosus' (good, virtuous), derived from Latin 'virtus' (moral strength, manliness, excellence), from 'vir' (man).

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Virtuous. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/virtuous
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