devout - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
devout Word Meanings
- having deep religious feelings or commitments
- expressing devotion to a cause or belief
- earnestly devoted to a particular activity
devout Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
devout Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈvaʊt/
US
/dɪˈvaʊt/
devout Word Etymology
de- = down / away + vout = vow. Origin: Latin 'devotus' → Old French 'devot' → English 'devout'. Imagine a person kneeling down, his heart full of vows, dedicated to prayer and devotion, illustrating deep commitment.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Devout describes a person with deep religious feelings or commitments, often shown by regular worship, prayer, or strict adherence to a faith. It can also describe someone earnestly devoted to a cause or belief, demonstrating steady, passionate support even when the going is hard. A devout volunteer may dedicate many hours to service, while a devout student pursues study with quiet, unwavering focus. The word carries a sense of sincerity and gravity, rather than mere enthusiasm or outward politeness. Learners should note that devout implies wholehearted dedication, sometimes with a solemn tone, and it tends to be stronger than simply religious or enthusiastic.
Usage Reminders
- - Strong, sincere commitment.
- - Not casual enthusiasm.
- - Can describe religious or non-religious devotion.
- - Often collocates with beliefs, practices, activities.
- - The tone is serious and respectful.
Common Misconceptions
- Devout is only about religion; it cannot describe non-religious dedication.
- Devout means fanatical or extreme in a negative way.
- Someone devout is always cheerful and loud about their beliefs.
- Devout is the same as religious zeal or piety, with no nuance.
- If you are not religious, you cannot be devout about anything.
Thinking Differences
Devout conveys deeper, steadier commitment than ordinary enthusiasm; English tends to reserve it for sincere, sustained actions, especially in religious or highly principled contexts.
Learning Tips
- Identify intensity by tone: devout is stronger than devoted or enthusiastic.
- Pair with nouns like believer, supporter, volunteer, or adherent.
- Avoid using devout for casual fans or fleeting interests.
- Note the solemn or formal connotations in many contexts.
- Practice with both religious and non-religious subjects.
- Check for collocations in dictionaries and corpora to sound natural.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'devout'?
A.Religious
B.Happy
C.Fast
D.Cold
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'devout' correctly?
A.They were devout about the sunny weather.
B.He was devout about his new car.
C.The devout cat slept all day.
D.She was always devout about her work.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'devout'?
A.Pious
B.Cheerful
C.Lazy
D.Doubtful
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'devout'?
A.Religious
B.Faithful
C.Irreligious
D.Devoted
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context might you describe someone as 'devout'?
A.At a religious ceremony
B.During a fun party
C.While watching TV
D.While sleeping
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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