noun
rectitude
Rectitude (noun) means the quality of being straight, with no bends or curves.
noun
1
The quality of being straight, with no bends or curves.
2
The quality of being correct, especially in one's opinions or judgement.
"A consciousness of rectitude can be a terrible thing, and in those days I didn't just think that I was right: I thought that “we” (our group of International Socialists in particular) were being damn well proved right."
— Christopher Hitchens, Hitch-22 (2010)
3
Behaviour that follows accepted moral standards; honesty and virtue.
"“Sit with her all night if we have to,” Syd affirms with strenuous rectitude."
— John le Carré, A Perfect Spy (1986)
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Etymology
From Middle English rectitude, from Middle French rectitude, from Late Latin rectitūdō (“straightness, uprightness”), from Latin rectus (“straight”), perfect passive participle of regō (“regulate, guide”).
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for rectitude
See all rhymes for rectitude →Frequently asked questions
What is the meaning of rectitude?
"rectitude" (noun) means the quality of being straight, with no bends or curves.
What is another word for rectitude?
Other words for "rectitude" include uprightness.
What is the opposite of rectitude?
Opposites of "rectitude" include obliquity, iniquity, immorality, corruption, depravity.
What are the different meanings of rectitude?
"rectitude" has 3 main meanings: 1. The quality of being straight, with no bends or curves; 2. The quality of being correct, especially in one's opinions or judgement; 3. Behaviour that follows accepted moral standards; honesty and virtue.
