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Yes, the words virtue and virility both stem from the same root: the Proto-Indo-European root wi-ro-, meaning “man,” which gave rise to the Latin word vir. 

The different evolutions of these two words reflect the changing meaning of “manliness” throughout history. 

The origin of virtue

• Latin: The Latin word for virtue, virtus, was derived from vir (“man”). It referred to the “manliness” or ideal qualities a Roman man should possess, including strength, bravery, valor, and moral rectitude.
• Old French and Middle English: As the word entered Old French as vertu and then Middle English, it lost its specific masculine connotation. Its meaning became more general, referring to moral excellence, goodness, or a specific beneficial power or quality.
• Modern English: By the 16th century, the word had even developed a sense opposite to its roots, coming to mean chastity, particularly for women. The older sense of “inherent power or efficacy” is still preserved in phrases like “by virtue of”. 

The origin of virility

• Latin: The word virility comes from the Latin word virilitas, meaning “manhood” or “manliness,” which also directly comes from vir.
• Modern English: While maintaining its connection to the root meaning of “man,” virility has kept a narrower focus than virtue. It is associated with masculine strength, sexual potency, and vigor. It is often used figuratively to describe the strength of a non-human entity, such as “the economic virility of a country”. 

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