Emily Dickinson Lexicon

PI'ET-Y, n. [L. pietas, from pius, or its root, probably a contracted word; Fr. pieté; It. pietà, piety, and pity; Sp. piedad, piety, pity, charity.]

1. Piety in principle, is a compound of veneration or reverence of the Supreme Being and love of his character, or veneration accompanied with love; and piety in practice, is the exercise of these affections in obedience to his will and devotion to his service. Piety is the only proper and adequate relief of decaying man. – Rambler.
2. Reverence of parents or friends, accompanied with affection and devotion to their honor and happiness.