Pious

Having or showing a deep reverence for God and religion; devoutly religious. Often, 'pious' can also imply a display of religious devotion that is excessively or hypocritically fervent, suggesting a self-righteous or sanctimonious attitude. The term can describe actions, beliefs, or individuals characterized by genuine religious feeling, but it's crucial to consider the context to discern whether it indicates sincerity or a more performative, insincere religiosity. It represents a spectrum ranging from genuine faith to ostentatious piety.

Pious meaning with examples

• The nun, a truly pious woman, dedicated her life to serving the poor and needy, embodying the teachings of her faith through her selfless actions and unwavering commitment to charity.
• He adopted a pious tone when discussing scripture, but his actions outside the church revealed a stark contrast between his words and deeds, suggesting a lack of true conviction.
• The king, in a pious act, commissioned the construction of a magnificent cathedral, intended to demonstrate his devotion to God and secure divine favor for his reign.
• Her grandfather was a quiet, pious man, who spent his days reading the Bible and tending his garden, finding solace and meaning in the simple rhythms of daily life and faith.