Definitions

virtue

[vur-choo] / ˈvɜr tʃu /

NOUN

honor, integrity

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advantage character ethic excellence faith generosity goodness ideal kindness love merit morality purity quality rectitude righteousness value

STRONG

arete asset charity chastity consideration credit faithfulness fineness fortitude high-mindedness hope incorruptibility innocence justice plus probity prudence respectability temper temperance trustworthiness uprightness worth worthiness

WEAK

ethicality ethicalness good point

Antonyms

STRONGEST

disadvantage dishonesty evil imperfection meanness

STRONG

disbelief disregard disrespect unfairness wildness

WEAK

dishonor immorality vice

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

By virtue of their creativity alone, these 11 movies have the power to restore your faith in film.

From Salon • Jun. 10, 2026

Gafill said he would have expected a 35% pickup, “simply by virtue of reopening the highway.”

From Los Angeles Times • Jun. 4, 2026

In Ancient Egypt, pharaohs and noblewomen wore embellished braided wigs to show power, and in the Middle Ages, women's long hair became associated with femininity and virtue.

From BBC • Jun. 3, 2026

Still, Elon Musk, Sam Altman and other entrepreneurs shouldn’t presume that people of superior virtue will always be in charge and can be counted on to do the right thing.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 19, 2026

I’m always teasing Margot about being a paragon of virtue these days, and she hates it.

From "The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank

Vocabulary lists containing virtue

"Romeo and Juliet" by William Shakespeare, Act II

Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!

"The Monkey's Paw," Vocabulary from the short story

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"Julius Caesar" by William Shakespeare, Act II

Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!