righteousness

[rahy-chuhs-nis]

noun

1. the quality or state of being righteous.

2. righteous conduct.

3. the quality or state of being just or rightful.

   They came to realize the righteousness of her position on the matter.

Word History and Origins

Origin of righteousness¹

First recorded before 900; Middle English rightwisnes(se), Old English rihtwīsnes; equivalent to righteous + -ness

Example Sentences

Regardless, the segments always ended the same way: the men in handcuffs, the audience riled up with moral righteousness and suspicion of their own neighbors.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

Based on an especially tough-minded piece of writing, this is a film that will get you contemplating pettiness and righteousness both.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

“We will not be silent on issues of righteousness, life, liberty, or leadership. We don’t endorse parties — we stand for the Kingdom!” the post read.

Read more on Salon

Despite what his parents wanted for him, Superman chose a path of righteousness, and it’s never too late to make that choice.

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"The cartoonist wanted to portray the righteousness of the oppressed Muslim people by depicting a Muslim killed by Israel, and he never intended to insult religious values," it said in a statement on X.

Read more on BBC

Related Words

• fairness 
• goodness 
• rectitude 
• respectability 

When To Use

What does righteousness mean?

Righteousness is the quality of being virtuous, honorable, or morally right. It can also refer to such behavior.Righteousness is the noun form of the adjective righteous. Being righteous means doing what is right—obeying the law or adhering to morals. Both righteous and righteousness are often used in a religious context.Example: It’s not easy to follow the path of righteousness—in fact, if an action is difficult to take, it’s probably right!