VERECONDIA. — From the Latin *vereor*, from which the other Italian noun “vergogna” (shame) also derives; but between the two derivatives there is a notable difference in meaning that could not have existed in the original Latin *verecundia*. It is thus understood why this term was defined as: “fear of something shameful which can therefore be reproached,” that is, “fear of turpitude and reproach” (*Summ. Theol.*, II-II, q. 144, a. 1).
Consequently, St. Thomas concludes, although it is a certain praiseworthy passion, it is not a virtue at all. It indeed implies fear of dishonor and reproach and is often a consciousness or suspicion of guilt, and can even be felt by vicious persons who at times experience shame for their own shamelessness, even without a true disposition to amend themselves. Therefore, it is not always to be taken in a praiseworthy and good sense, inasmuch as it does not directly tend to avoid fault, but rather to avoid disesteem and only indirectly fault.
Nowadays, however, it is understood in the common sense as that feeling by which one blushes and shuns ugly and dishonest things. It approaches *pudore* (modesty) (q.v.) and, like it, always has a good sense; and just as purity is a deliberate will, it is the habit of observing the sense of modesty and of conforming one’s conduct to II. The opposite vice, on the other hand, is shamelessness, which merges with brazenness.