re·li·gious
(rĭ-lĭj́əs)
[Middle English, from Old French, from Latin religiōsus, from religiō, religion; see religion.]
adjective
- Having or showing belief in and reverence for God or a deity.
- Of, concerned with, or teaching religion: a religious text.
- Extremely scrupulous or conscientious: religious devotion to duty.
noun: pl., religious.
- A member of a monastic order, especially a nun or monk.
derivatives
- re·lígious·ly
- adverb
- re·lígious·ness
- noun
synonyms:
religious, devout, pious These adjectives mean having or showing a belief in and veneration for God or a divine power, especially as it is reflected in the practice of religion. Religious implies adherence to religion in both belief and practice: The cathedral at Chartres is an expression of the religious fervor of the Middle Ages. Devout connotes ardent faith and sincere devotion: Devout Muslims observe Ramadan punctiliously. Pious stresses dutiful, reverential discharge of religious duties: a pious woman who attends Mass every morning.
