/ ˈpaɪəs; NAmE / adjective
1.
having or showing a deep respect for God and religion
SYN devout :
pious acts
OPP impious
—see also piety
2.
( disapproving ) pretending to be religious, moral or good in order to impress other people
SYN sanctimonious :
pious sentiments
3.
pious hope something that you want to happen but is unlikely to be achieved :
Such reforms seem likely to remain little more than pious hopes.
► pi·ous·ly adverb
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Latin pius dutiful, pious + -ous .