ENGLISH
REFERENCE

godly

adj.
C1 Advanced US //ˈɡɑdɫi// UK //ɡˈɒdli// god·ly

adj. living in a way that follows religious rules and shows deep respect for God. It describes someone who is very moral and good.

adj. devoutly religious or pious in character and conduct. Often describes individuals or lifestyles that strictly adhere to divine laws and moral principles.


SIMPLE

She lived a godly life dedicated to helping the poor.

CONTEXTUAL

The community looked up to him as a godly man who always acted with integrity.

COMPLEX

The biography explores how her godly upbringing influenced her later commitment to social justice and non-violent protest.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

From god + -ly (adjectival suffix).

Etymology 2

From god + -ly (adverbial suffix).

Usage

Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun; less common in modern secular contexts.

© 2026 English Reference