Virtue Meaning and Definition
Virtue
Pronunciation
/ˈvɜːrtjuː/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
Moral excellence, goodness, or righteousness; a character trait or quality that is considered morally good and desirable.
Examples
- She possessed the virtue of compassion and empathy.
- Honesty is a virtue that is highly valued in our society.
Synonyms
- Goodness
- Integrity
Antonyms
- Vice
- Wickedness
Additional Information
Virtue is a concept that has been debated and discussed throughout history, with various philosophers and theologians offering their own interpretations. In many cultures, virtues are seen as essential for personal and societal well-being. They are often considered habits or character traits that are developed through practice and repetition.
In modern times, the concept of virtue has been applied to various fields, including business, education, and politics. It is often used to describe the moral standards and values that guide an individual’s or organization’s actions.
Etymology
The word “virtue” comes from the Latin “virtus,” meaning “manliness” or “excellence.” It has its roots in the Greek concept of “arete,” which referred to moral excellence or goodness.
Usage Notes
Virtue is often used to describe moral qualities, such as honesty, kindness, and fairness. It can also be used to describe a person’s character, as in “he possesses the virtue of patience.”
Cultural References
Virtue has been a central concept in many literary and philosophical works throughout history, including Aristotle’s “Nicomachean Ethics” and Benjamin Franklin’s “Thirteen Virtues.”
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “A virtue out of necessity” (meaning to make the best of a difficult situation)
Related Words or Phrases
- Morality
- Ethics
Collocations
- virtue of patience
- virtue of honesty
Frequency of Use
Virtue is a moderately frequent word in modern language, often used in formal and informal contexts to describe moral qualities and character traits.
Common Misspellings
- Virtu
- Virtur