Godly
ˈɡɒdli
Definitions
2 meaningsReverent towards God or exhibiting qualities associated with God; pious.
ˈɡɒdli
Devout and reverent towards God
The priest delivered a godly sermon to the congregation.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who's always trying to be good and kind, and who believes in God a lot. That person is godly. Like, they're always doing what they think is right, even when it's hard.
👶 For kids: When someone is 'godly', it means they are kind and good like they are listening to god.
More Examples
She was known for her godly wisdom and compassion.
He lived a godly life of service to others.
How It's Used
"The godly man attended church every Sunday."
"They lived a godly life in the face of adversity."
Having the qualities of God; divine; excellent; superior.
ˈɡɒdli
Resembling God; divine or excellent
The ancient temple held godly statues and relics.
💡 Simply: If something is 'godly', it's like it's super amazing and perfect. Imagine the best athlete ever – some might say their performance was godly.
👶 For kids: When something is 'godly', it is really really good.
More Examples
The musician's godly voice filled the concert hall.
The mountain's godly majesty inspired awe.
How It's Used
"His godly beauty was praised by poets."
"The artist possessed godly talent."
From Old English *gōdlic* meaning 'goodly, excellent, pious', a compound of *gōd* 'good' and the suffix *-lic* '-ly'.
Used since Old English, it originally denoted goodness and excellence, gradually acquiring a more religious connotation.
Memory tip
Think of 'God' + 'ly'. Acting 'God-like' or behaving in a way that pleases God.
Word Origin
"good"