The word ‘Virtue’ (noun) means moral excellence—a high standard of ethical behavior and character. In this guide, you’ll learn the full definition, synonyms, antonyms, etymology, and real-life examples of how to use ‘Virtue’ correctly in sentences.
Virtue Explained in Depth
A complete and detailed guide to the word Virtue, including meaning, definition, examples, etymology, synonyms, antonyms, and practical guidance for using it in everyday and academic writing.
Meanings of Virtue
Virtue refers to moral excellence, righteousness, or goodness in character. It includes qualities like honesty, integrity, compassion, and courage, and it’s often used to describe how a person chooses to act when nobody is watching.
Definition
Virtue is moral excellence or righteousness. It denotes a positive character trait or quality that aligns with ethical principles and societal values, often helping guide someone toward doing what is right.
Etymology
- From the Latin word virtus, associated with “manliness,” “courage,” and “excellence.”
- In classical usage, it related to strength and valor; in English, it broadened to emphasize moral excellence and righteousness.
- Entered Middle English through Old French vertu (with the sense of virtue/excellence becoming increasingly moralized over time).
Example Sentences
- Patience is often considered a virtue in high-pressure situations at work.
- Honesty and kindness are virtues that help build trust and respect among teammates.
- She handled the dispute with the virtues of compassion and humility.
- In her community, volunteering isn’t just an activity—it’s a virtue many people try to live by.
Virtue Synonyms
- Value
- Goodness
- Integrity
- Honesty
- Morality
- Uprightness
- Excellence
- Ethicalness
- Righteousness
- Decency
Virtue Antonyms
- Vice
- Immorality
- Corruption
- Wickedness
- Depravity
- Sinfulness
- Dishonesty
- Injustice
- Debauchery
- Degeneracy
FAQs about Virtue
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the word “Virtue.”
1. What does “virtue” actually mean?
It refers to moral excellence and a high standard of good character or behavior.
2. Can virtue describe both a person and an action?
Yes. You can talk about someone’s character (“She’s known for her virtues”) and also about a specific action that demonstrates moral goodness (“It was a virtuous choice”).
3. Is virtue the same as values?
Not exactly. Values are broader guiding principles, while virtues are specific traits (like honesty or compassion) that help people practice those values in daily life.
4. How is virtue different from “righteousness”?
They overlap, but virtue is usually framed as positive character traits (how you live and behave), while righteousness more often emphasizes being morally right in a judgment or standard.
5. Can virtue be developed?
Yes. Many writers treat virtue as something you build through repeated choices—reflection, practice, accountability, and consistent effort to act in morally admirable ways.
Explore more V words
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- Nouns that start with V
- Verbs that start with V
Quick Take: Using Virtue in Writing
If you’re describing someone’s character, virtue works well with traits like honesty, compassion, and courage. If you’re describing a choice, pair it with a context phrase (for example, “a virtue shown in…”). For the related adjective, you may also want to review virtuous, since it’s often used to describe actions that reflect moral excellence.
