piety

UK: ˈpaɪəti | US: ˈpaɪəti

Definition
  1. n. devotion to religious duties or practices

  2. n. reverence for God or sacred things

  3. n. dutiful respect or loyalty (e.g., toward family or traditions)

Structure
pie <devout (from Latin *pietas*) + ty<noun suffix>
Etymology

The word "piety" traces back to Latin pietas, meaning "dutifulness, loyalty, or religious devotion." The root pie- evolved into Old French pieté before entering Middle English as piete. The suffix -ty (from Latin -tatem) nominalizes the adjective, forming a noun denoting a quality or state. Historically, pietas in Roman culture extended beyond religion to include familial and civic duty, reflecting its broader semantic development into modern "piety."

Examples
  1. Her piety was evident in her daily prayers and charitable acts.

  2. The monk’s life was marked by deep piety and humility.

  3. Filial piety is a cornerstone of many Asian cultures.

  4. The painting depicted a scene of religious piety among villagers.

  5. His piety never wavered, even in times of personal hardship.