Virtuous
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəs/
Definitions
2 meaningsHaving or showing high moral standards; righteous.
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəs/
Having or showing high moral standards.
She lived a virtuous life, always helping others and adhering to her principles.
💡 Simply: Someone who's virtuous is like the good guy in a story – they always try to do the right thing, even when it's hard. Think of a superhero always saving people!
👶 For kids: Being a virtuous person means you are a very good person who always tries to do the right things.
More Examples
The community admired her for her virtuous behavior and dedication to ethical conduct.
He strove to be a virtuous leader, guided by principles of fairness and integrity.
How It's Used
"A virtuous person is someone who consistently acts in accordance with moral principles."
"The heroine was depicted as a virtuous woman who always chose the righteous path."
Having or showing good qualities; beneficial or effective.
/ˈvɜːrtʃuəs/
Having particular good qualities; beneficial.
The virtuous influence of education can be seen in many communities.
💡 Simply: If something is virtuous in this sense, it means it's helpful or has good qualities. Like healthy food that's good for you!
👶 For kids: Something virtuous means that is good or helpful.
More Examples
She believed in the virtuous power of forgiveness.
The virtuous cycle of hard work and success continued for years.
How It's Used
"A healthy diet and regular exercise have virtuous effects on the body."
"The company's virtuous practices improved its public image."
Synonyms
Ethical
Good
Moral
Principled
Righteous
Advantageous
Beneficial
Effective
Positive
Antonyms
Idioms & expressions
a virtuous circle
A situation in which one positive action or result leads to another, creating a positive feedback loop.
"Investing in education creates a virtuous circle, leading to a more skilled workforce and economic growth."
From Middle English vertuous, from Old French vertuous, from Latin virtuosus ('full of virtue'), from virtus ('virtue, excellence').
The word 'virtuous' has been used for centuries to describe individuals and actions that align with moral principles, with early usage often associated with religious contexts and teachings.
Memory tip
Think of a knight in shining armor: he is virtuous, full of goodness and doing the right thing.