by virtue of

phrase

variants or in virtue of
Synonyms of by virtue ofnext
: through the force of : by authority of
She has the right to participate by virtue of her status as a former employee.

Examples of by virtue of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Finally, lactic acid boasts plumping power by virtue of its humectant properties. — Sophie Wirt, InStyle, 3 July 2026 The exemption owes to the Padres becoming a payer into MLB’s revenue-sharing pool by virtue of evolving into a top-5 fixture in home attendance. — Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of by virtue of was in the 14th century

Rhymes for by virtue of

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Browse Nearby Words

by turns
by virtue of
bywalk
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Cite this Entry

“By virtue of.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/by%20virtue%20of. Accessed 10 Jul. 2026.

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