Quizzes & Games
Word of the Day
Video
New Words
My Favorites
View your list of saved words.
(You can log in using Facebook.)

cardinal virtue

noun

Definition of CARDINAL VIRTUE

a quality that gives something special worth <the cardinal virtue of wool is that it retains its insulating properties even when wet>

Synonyms cardinal virtue, distinction, excellency, grace, merit, value, virtue

Related Words advantage, edge, plus, superiority

Near Antonyms blemish, defect, failing, fault, flaw; drawback, minus, negative

Antonyms deficiency, demerit, disvalue

What made you want to look up cardinal virtue? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Name That Thing

True or False?

Take It Now »

Spell It

The Merriam-Webster
Unabridged Dictionary

Online access to a
legendary resource
Log In or Sign Up »

Learning English?
We can help.

Visit our free site designed
especially for learners and
teachers of English
LearnersDictionary.com »

Our Dictionary,
On Your Devices

Merriam-Webster,
With Voice Search
Get the Free Apps! »

New Words
Added for 2014

America's best-selling
dictionary updated for 2014!
New words include hashtag,
steampunk, and selfie.
Learn More »

Join Us

Merriam-Webster
on Twitter »

Merriam-Webster
on Facebook »

Bookstore: Digital and Print

Merriam-Webster references for Mobile, Kindle, print, and more. See all »

Other Merriam-Webster Dictionaries

Webster's Unabridged Dictionary » WordCentral for Kids »

Learner's ESL Dictionary » Visual Dictionary »

Spanish Central »