Righteous
/ˈraɪtʃəs/
Definitions
Conforming to accepted standards of morality or justice; morally right or justifiable.
/ˈraɪtʃəs/
Morally right or justifiable; virtuous.
The righteous knight always protected the weak and innocent.
💡 Simply: Imagine someone who always does what's fair and good. Like, if a kid shares their toys, they're being righteous! Or a superhero who always fights for the good guys.
👶 For kids: Being righteous means doing what's right and fair.
More Examples
The community praised the righteous actions of the firefighters during the disaster.
She lived a righteous life, always striving to help others.
How It's Used
"The righteous man was rewarded for his devotion."
"The judge made a righteous judgment based on the facts presented."
"She felt righteous anger at the injustice."
Idioms & expressions
righteous indignation
Anger or resentment felt towards something perceived as morally wrong or unjust, often accompanied by a sense of moral superiority.
"The community expressed righteous indignation at the environmental damage caused by the factory."
the righteous
Those who are morally upright and just, often used in a religious context.
"The scripture promises rewards to the righteous."
From Middle English rightwis, from right + -wis (wise, -ful). The word's association with moral correctness, justice, and divine approval has been central to its usage throughout history, particularly within religious contexts.
The word 'righteous' has been present in English since the 13th century, initially used to denote correctness and eventually acquired moral and religious connotations.
Memory tip
Think of someone who always does the right thing, like a judge handing out fair sentences, or someone who stands up against bullies.
Word Origin
"right (correct) + -wis (wise, -ful)"