Vir`tu*o"so (?), n.; pl. Virtuosos (#); It. Virtuosi (#). [It. See
Virtuous.] 1. One devoted to virtu; one skilled in the fine arts, in
antiquities, and the like; a collector or ardent admirer of
curiosities, etc.
Virtuoso the Italians call a man who loves the noble arts, and is a
critic in them.
Dryden.
2. (Mus.) A performer on some instrument, as the violin or the piano,
who excels in the technical part of his art; a brilliant concert
player.
Vir`tu*o"so*ship, n. The condition, pursuits, or occupation of a
virtuoso. Bp. Hurd.
Vir"tu*ous (?; 135), a. [OE. vertuous, OF. vertuos, vertuous, F.
vertueux, fr. L. Virtuous. See Virtue, and cf. Virtuoso.] 1. Possessing
or exhibiting virtue. Specifically: —
(a) Exhibiting manly courage and strength; valorous; valiant; brave.
[Obs.]
Old Priam's son, amongst them all, was chiefly virtuous.
Chapman.
(b) Having power or efficacy; powerfully operative; efficacious;
potent. [Obs.] Chaucer.
Lifting up his virtuous staff on high, He smote the sea, which calméd
was with speed.
Spenser.
Every virtuous plant and healing herb.
Milton.
(c) Having moral excellence; characterized by morality; upright;
righteous; pure; as, a virtuous action.
The virtuous mind that ever walks attended By a strong siding champion,
conscience.
Milton.