'virtue' originates from Latin, specifically the word 'virtus,' where 'vir' meant 'man' and 'virtus' meant 'moral strength or excellence.'

'virtus' transformed into the Old French word 'vertu,' and eventually became the modern English word 'virtue' through Middle English.

Initially, it meant 'manliness or valor,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'moral excellence or goodness.'