Logo
dictionary thesaurus

cardinal virtue

noun

Definition of cardinal virtue

1 : one of the four classically defined natural virtues prudence, justice, temperance, or fortitude
2 : a quality designated as a major virtue
Synonyms & Antonyms Example Sentences Learn More about cardinal virtue

Keep scrolling for more

Synonyms & Antonyms for cardinal virtue

Synonyms

distinction, excellence, excellency, grace, merit, value, virtue

Antonyms

deficiency, demerit, disvalue

Visit the Thesaurus for More 

Examples of cardinal virtue in a Sentence

the cardinal virtue of wool is that it retains its insulating properties even when wet

Recent Examples on the Web

 Breaching tennis’ cardinal virtues of self-sufficiency and autonomy, the coach begins by telling this emotional woman to calm down. — Jon Wertheim, SI.com, "Mailbag: Did David Ferrer’s Davis Cup Triumph Doom ITF Proposal for Revamp?," 11 Apr. 2018 Dialogue is one of their cardinal virtues, and most seemed determined to give Trump a hearing. — Time, "'America No Longer Matters.' Davos Isn't Worried About President Trump," 25 Jan. 2018

First Known Use of cardinal virtue

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Keep scrolling for more

WORD OF THE DAY

impetus

play

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!