Moral

Definition

Moral is an adjective and a noun. As an adjective, it relates to principles of right and wrong behavior, or expressing conformity to ethical standards. As a noun, it refers to the lesson derived from a story, experience, or event, or the principles governing proper conduct.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɔːr.əl/, /ˈmɑːr.əl/
• Respelling: MOR-uhl, MAHR-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈmɒr.əl/
• Respelling: MOR-uhl

Etymology

The word "moral" comes from the Latin "moralis," meaning "pertaining to manners or morals," derived from "mos" (genitive "moris"), meaning "custom" or "habit." It was first adopted into Middle English from Old French.

Derivatives

• Morality (noun)
• Morally (adverb)
• Immoral (adjective)
• Amoral (adjective)
• Moralist (noun)

Synonyms

• Ethical
• Virtuous
• Principled

Antonyms

• Immoral
• Unethical
• Corrupt

Usage

The term "moral" is commonly used in discussions about ethics, literature, and behavior. For example, "The story teaches a valuable moral," or "He is guided by strong moral principles."

Related Terms

• Ethics: The branch of philosophy dealing with right and wrong behavior.
• Values: Principles or standards of behavior that are considered important.
• Integrity: The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Concerning principles of right and wrong behavior:
  • Example: "The debate raised important moral questions."
• Expressing conformity to ethical standards:
  • Example: "She is a moral person who always tries to do the right thing."

Noun

• The lesson or principle derived from a story or experience:
  • Example: "The moral of the fable is to always tell the truth."
• Principles governing proper conduct:
  • Example: "He believes in upholding the morals of society."