Virtuously

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that demonstrates high moral character and ethical behavior
2. By performing actions that reflect integrity and virtue
3. Acting with strong adherence to moral principles and ethical standards

Etymology: "Virtuously" is a straightforward formation: it takes the adjective "virtuous" and adds the adverbial suffix "-ly", the same ending found on countless English adverbs such as "quickly" or "gently". The adjective itself reaches back to Latin "virtus", which in classical usage meant manliness, courage and strength, and only gradually came to mean moral goodness. That shift from physical capability to moral character is the arc the whole family of words carries. The adjective came into English through Middle English "vertuous", and the adverb followed the same path, arriving with the sense of acting in accordance with moral excellence. Its meaning has stayed close to its adjective, so describing someone who behaves virtuously means describing conduct that reflects integrity rather than mere appearance.

Synonyms: morally, ethically

Antonyms: immorally