Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Piety: meaning, definitions and examples

🙏
Add to dictionary

piety

[ˈpaɪəti ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious devotion

Piety is the quality of being religious or reverent. It involves a deep respect for God or a higher power, as well as a strong sense of devotion to religious practices and beliefs. Piety often manifests itself in acts of worship, prayer, and adherence to religious teachings.

Synonyms

devotion, faithfulness, reverence.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
piety

Piety is often used to describe a strong dedication to religious duties and practices. It can be used to express admiration for someone's sincere and earnest involvement in their faith.

  • Her piety was evident in her daily prayers and acts of charity
  • He was known for his piety, always attending church services and participating in religious events
devotion

Devotion is used to describe a profound dedication and loyalty, not strictly limited to religious contexts. It can refer to allegiance to a cause, person, or practice.

  • His devotion to his family was unwavering, always putting their needs first
  • She showed great devotion to her studies, spending hours in the library
reverence

Reverence is used to express deep respect and admiration, particularly towards something considered sacred or significant. It often implies a sense of awe or veneration.

  • The monks approached the ancient manuscript with reverence, understanding its historical value
  • There was a sense of reverence in the air as the community gathered to honor their fallen heroes
faithfulness

Faithfulness is often used to emphasize loyalty and trustworthiness, especially in relationships or commitments. It carries a positive connotation of reliability and steadfastness.

  • Their marriage was built on faithfulness and mutual respect
  • The dog’s faithfulness to its owner was touching; it never left his side

Examples of usage

  • Her piety was evident in the way she attended church every Sunday without fail.
  • The monk's piety was admired by all who knew him.
  • His piety guided him in times of trouble and uncertainty.
Context #2 | Noun

loyalty to family

Piety can also refer to a strong sense of loyalty and devotion to one's family. It involves caring for and supporting family members, prioritizing their well-being, and showing love and respect towards them.

Synonyms

family loyalty, filial devotion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
piety

This word is most commonly used in a religious context to describe a deep sense of reverence and devotion toward God or a higher power.

  • Her piety was evident in her daily prayers and charitable works.
  • The priest spoke of piety as a path to spiritual fulfillment.
filial devotion

This term is specifically used to describe the respect, love, and care a child shows toward their parents. It is often seen in cultural or traditional contexts.

  • In many cultures, filial devotion is considered a fundamental virtue.
  • She exhibited filial devotion by taking care of her elderly parents.
family loyalty

This phrase describes a deep sense of commitment and allegiance to one’s family members. It is often used in the context of family relationships and responsibilities.

  • His family loyalty was unquestionable; he stood by his sister through all her troubles.
  • In times of crisis, family loyalty can be a strong source of support.

Examples of usage

  • She showed great piety towards her elderly parents, taking care of them in their old age.
  • His piety towards his siblings was evident in the way he always stood up for them.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from the Latin 'pietas', which means duty to one's family, country, and gods, reflecting a deeper sense of love and responsibility.
  • In ancient Rome, piety was not just about worship, but also about fulfilling one's obligations, whether to family or society.

Religion

  • In many religious texts, piety is celebrated as a virtue, often associated with prayer, charity, and humility.
  • Different religions define piety in unique ways; for example, in Buddhism, it may refer to the commitment to compassionate actions.

Literature

  • Classic literature often explores the theme of piety, showing characters torn between duty and personal desires.
  • In John Milton’s 'Paradise Lost', piety is depicted through characters who embody religious devotion and moral integrity.

Psychology

  • Studies suggest that individuals who practice piety often report higher levels of life satisfaction and community belonging.
  • Piety can foster social connections, leading to supportive communities that share common values and beliefs.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In various cultures, piety is portrayed through rituals and traditions, strengthening community bonds and shared values.
  • The expression of piety can vary greatly; some cultures emphasize outward displays of devotion, while others focus on inner faith and reflection.

Translations

Change language
 

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,813 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.