pious Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective having or showing or expressing reverence for a deity
    • pious readings

WordNet


Pi"ous adjective
Etymology
L. pius: cf. F. pieux.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to piety; exhibiting piety; reverential; dutiful; religious; devout; godly. "Pious hearts." Milton. "Pious poetry." Johnson.
    Where was the martial brother's pious care? Pope.
  2. Practiced under the pretext of religion; prompted by mistaken piety; as, pious errors; pious frauds. Syn. -- Godly; devout; religious; righteous.

Webster 1913