Morally excellent and following high ethical standards; showing good character and behavior, especially regarding honesty and proper conduct.
From Latin 'virtuosus' (excellent, powerful), derived from 'virtus' (strength, manliness, virtue). The meaning evolved from 'having strength' to 'having moral strength or goodness.'
The original Latin 'virtus' was about military strength and manliness, but as Christianity spread through Rome, it got reinterpreted as moral goodness—showing how the same word can do a complete personality change based on cultural values!
Virtue historically defined differently by gender: male virtue emphasized public leadership and reason; female virtue restricted to sexual chastity and obedience. Applied asymmetrically across judgment of conduct.
Use consistently across all people without gendered double standards. Specify which virtue (courage, honesty, integrity) rather than vague approbation.
["courageous","honest","integrity-driven","principled"]
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