I. rə̇ˈlijəs, rēˈ- adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Old French religieus, from Latin religiosus, from religio religion + -osus -ous — more at religion
1. : relating to that which is acknowledged as ultimate reality : manifesting devotion to and reflecting the nature of the divine or that which one holds to be of ultimate importance : exemplifying the influence of religion : pious , godly
a religious purpose
a religious man
religious attitude
2. : committed, dedicated, or consecrated to the service of the divine : set apart to religion
a Buddhist monk of a religious order
the religious life of a nun
religious offerings
3. : of or relating to religion : concerned with religion : teaching or setting forth religion
religious liberty
a religious duty
a religious poet
also : sacred , holy
a religious book
religious rites
4.
a. : scrupulously and conscientiously faithful
religious in his observance of rules of health
b. : fervent , zealous
Synonyms: see devout
II. noun
( plural religious )
Etymology: Middle English, from Old French religieus, from religieus, adjective
: one (as a monk or nun) who is bound by vows, sequestered from secular concerns, and devoted to a life of piety