# virtuous

/ˈvɝtʃuəs/ (US) · /vˈɜːtʃuːəs/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/virtuous
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

having or showing very high moral standards. You use this to describe someone who always tries to do the right thing and avoid bad behavior.

For teachers: conforming to high moral standards; exhibiting righteousness or excellence in character. Often used to describe individuals who adhere strictly to ethical principles.

## Examples

- She led a virtuous life dedicated to helping others.
- The politician tried to maintain a virtuous image to win the trust of the conservative voters.
- In classical philosophy, a virtuous person is one who finds the perfect balance between extremes, acting with courage and temperance in every situation.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an attributive adjective before a noun or predicatively after a linking verb like 'be' or 'seem'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.