Rüvet

Rüvet is a term found in Turkic-language literary and philological sources with no single, universally accepted meaning. In Ottoman and classical Turkish texts, rüvet is commonly described as virtue, propriety, or noble character, with nuance ranging from personal integrity to dignified conduct in public life. In some contexts it functions as a label for moral refinement in poetry and prose, reflecting concerns with social reputation and ethical bearing.

Etymology and attestation of rüvet are debated among scholars. It is generally considered to derive from Turkic roots connected to notions of moral character, and there are suggested cognates in Azerbaijani and Turkish. Some analyses note possible Persian influence via Arabic, though no consensus exists on a precise derivation. Early lexicographers offered varying definitions, contributing to the term’s intricate and context-dependent sense.

In modern Turkish, rüvet is rarely used outside historical or literary discussion. Contemporary equivalents for similar ideas include erdem (virtue) and iffet (modesty), which more often appear in everyday language. The term also occurs as a surname or place name in some regions, but such usages are uncommon and typically historical or literary in scope.

See also: Turkish language; Ottoman literature; ethics in Islam; virtue in literary traditions.