Emily Dickinson Lexicon

VIR'TU-OUS, a.

1. Morally good; acting in conformity to the moral law; practicing the moral duties, and abstaining from vice; as, a virtuous man.
2. Being in conformity to the moral or divine law; as, a virtuous action; a virtuous life. The mere performance of virtuous actions does not denominate an agent virtuous. – Price.
3. Chaste; applied to women.
4. Efficacious by inherent qualities; as, virtuous herbs; virtuous drugs. [Not in use.] – Chapman.
5. Having great or powerful properties; as, virtuous steel; a virtuous staff; a virtuous ring. [Not in use.] – Milton. Spenser.
6. Having medicinal qualities. [Not used.] – Bacon.