noun

virtue

VUR-choo/ˈvɜːrtʃuː/

A quality that gives someone or something merit or usefulness.

The man shows the virtue of honesty by returning the lost wallet.

A young white man returns a dropped wallet intact to an elderly South Asian woman, who receives it with relief on a quiet sidewalk.

Etymology

virtueLatinmanliness, valor, moral excellence

Latin virtus connected manliness and courage with excellence of character. The English moral sense carries forward that idea of excellence as goodness in conduct or as a particular admirable quality.

In context

Calvary Chapel Chino Valley7:19

you see kindness and goodness you see faithfulness and meekness virtue knowledge endurance piety brotherly love this is all character this is all evidence these are the things that believers are supposed to be known by

John 15:1-8 | The True Vine | 5.6.30

More examples

Patience is a valuable virtue in a teacher.
The main virtue of this design is its simplicity.
The apartment has several virtues, including low rent and ample sunlight.

Forms

virtue · virtues

virtuous adjective — Having or showing morally admirable qualities.

Similar words

merit: Emphasizes worth or excellence rather than a specific useful quality.
advantage: Emphasizes a benefit, often compared with other available options.
strength: Highlights an especially effective quality or area of ability.