Synonym selection (vocabulary – meaning of “pious”): Choose the word that best expresses the meaning. Target word: PIOUS Instruction: Select the closest synonym meaning “deeply religious; devout.”

Meaning
‘‘Pious’’ refers to showing reverence and devotion to religious beliefs and practices.

Option analysis
Devout — direct synonym. ✅Profane / Impious — irreverent; antonyms. ❌Agnostic — person uncertain about existence of God; not synonymous with pious. ❌

Usage
A pious monk = a devout monk.

Final Answer
Devout