piety
PY-uh-tee
/ˈpaɪ.ə.ti/
The quality of being devoutly religious, dutiful, or reverent.
Refers to the virtue or habitual practice of devotion, moral duty, and religious observance.
The story behind the word. Traced back to Latin 'pietas', describing a Roman citizen's multifaceted loyalty to family, ancestors, country, and the gods. In Old French, 'pietas' split into two English words: 'piety' (devotion) and 'pity' (compassion).
Word relationships
- devoutness: 'Devoutness' emphasizes the emotional state of faith, while 'piety' includes dutiful actions and family/filial honor.
- reverence: 'Reverence' is an attitude of awe, whereas 'piety' is a broader lifestyle habit of moral and religious duty.
- impiety: Lack of reverence for God or sacred duty.
Commonly confused with
- pity: 'Pity' is sympathy for another's distress; 'piety' is spiritual or dutiful reverence.
Word family
- pious (adjective): Devoutly religious or dutiful.
- piously (adverb): In a pious manner.
Collocations
- filial piety
- deep piety
- acts of piety
- show piety
Example sentences
- "Her quiet piety was admired by everyone in her village." Describing character
- "In Confucian culture, filial piety is considered one of the highest moral virtues." Filial devotion
Memory hook
Piety requires 'pie'-ce of your time dedicated to spiritual duty. Dutiful devotion to faith and family.
When not to use
Do not use for superficial or temporary politeness; it reflects deep-seated duty and faith.
Fun facts
- Filial piety (respect for parents) is the core moral foundation of East Asian philosophies like Confucianism.
Explore more words
devotion, observance, observant, veneration, propriety, temple
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