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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.

The Supreme Court ruled, however, that he was a US citizen by virtue of being born in the United States.

From Barron's • Apr. 1, 2026

The proposed rule makes clear that investment innovation is a virtue, not a vice, under fiduciary law.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

Rosenberg regards China’s as a victor in the trade war with America so far, by virtue of the $1.2 trillion trade surplus it recorded in 2025.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 17, 2026

Defending the sanctity of the system is different from projecting strength as a virtue.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 13, 2026

The lembas had a virtue without which they would long ago have lain down to die.

From "The Return of the King" by J.R.R. Tolkien

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.