Virtue

Noun

Definition: Behavior showing high moral standards.

Synonyms: Goodness, Morality, Righteousness

Antonyms: Vice, Wickedness, Immorality

Examples:

Her virtue was evident in her selfless acts of kindness.
He possessed the virtue of honesty, always speaking the truth even when it was difficult.

Mnemonics:

Think of 'virtue' as a quality that leads to moral excellence.
Virtue can be associated with the Virgin Mary, who is often seen as the embodiment of purity and goodness.

Etymology:

Origin:

Middle English, via Old French from Latin 'virtus', meaning "manliness, excellence, worth, or virtue"

Historical Usage:

The word originated from Latin and was originally associated with masculinity and the qualities of a man of courage and honor. In later usage, it evolved to encompass moral excellence and goodness.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Cardinal virtues"

Explanation:

Refers to the four main virtues of wisdom, courage, temperance, and justice, which are seen as fundamental ethical principles in many philosophical and religious traditions.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing 'virtue' with 'virginity' or abstinence.

Explanation:

While virtue can encompass qualities such as purity, it is not solely limited to sexual purity or abstinence. Virtue refers to a broader range of moral excellence and high moral standards.