as in holiness
the quality or state of being spiritually pure or virtuous
they say that cleanliness is next to godliness
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Recent Examples of godliness
At its core, this transit is a reminder that clarity is power and in Virgo’s world, cleanliness really is next to godliness.
—
Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Cowliness is next to godliness.
—Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 11 Aug. 2025
Valerie Mesa, People.com, 2 Sep. 2025
Cowliness is next to godliness.
—Yasmin Tayag, The Atlantic, 11 Aug. 2025
Recent Examples of Synonyms for godliness
Noun
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Even adversaries in the Arab world have never sunk to attacking the holiness of the Western Wall.—
Steven Burg,
Sun Sentinel,
23 Feb. 2026
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Singh, who would be our local guide, always wore the five traits of a pious Sikh man — uncut hair (symbolizing strength and holiness and topped by the identifying turban), a steel bracelet, wooden comb, sheathed dagger and a baggy undergarment dating back to the Sikhs’ warrior days on horses.—
Norma Meyer,
Oc Register,
4 Feb. 2026
Noun
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And for many religious leaders, participation in this movement is inherently rooted in their theology and spirituality.—
Angie Leventis Lourgos,
Chicago Tribune,
25 Mar. 2026
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With lyrics in Bété, French, and English, the album is lush with ceremonial Wihegou melodies played on West African instruments like the kora and djembe, and resonant with themes of heritage, spirituality, and hope.—
Chinonso Ihekire,
Rolling Stone,
25 Mar. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Godliness.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/godliness. Accessed 4 Apr. 2026.
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