Vertuously

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that reflects high moral standards and ethical behavior
2. With a demeanor that demonstrates integrity, goodness, and strong ethical principles
3. In a way that consistently shows moral goodness and adherence to ethical principles

Etymology: "Vertuously" is simply "vertuous" with the adverb ending "-ly" added. "Vertuous" is the older spelling of "virtuous," and it was in use in English as an adjective meaning morally good or possessing virtue. Adding "-ly" turns the adjective into an adverb describing how something is done, so "to act vertuously" means to act in a morally upright manner. The spelling "vertuous" reflects the older English habit of writing "vertu" for what is now "virtue." Since "vertuously" is formed directly from "vertuous," it preserves that earlier form of the word and shows how English spelling of this family of words has shifted over time.

Synonyms: morally, ethically, righteously, honorably, nobly

Antonyms: immorally, unethically, wrongfully, dishonorably, sinfully