Definition of pious adjective from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary
pious
adjective
/ˈpaɪəs/
1having or showing a deep respect for God and religionsynonymdevoutpious actsantonymimpious see also piety2(disapproving) pretending to be religious, moral, or good in order to impress other peoplesynonymsanctimoniouspious sentimentsHe dismissed his critics as pious do-gooders.3pious hopesomething that you want to happen but is unlikely to be achievedSuch reforms seem likely to remain little more than pious hopes.piously
adverb“ There's no need for bad language,” said Edward piously.