English · Culture & Society
ethics
/ˈeθ.ɪks/
[/ˈeθ.ɪks/]
moral principles
Intermediatenoun
Definition
The principles that guide what is right and wrong behavior, or the study of such principles. It applies to individuals, professions, and society.
Example
Medical ethics require doctors to put the well-being of their patients above all else.
Medical ethics require doctors to put the well-being of their patients above all else.
Etymology
From Greek 'ēthikos' (moral), from 'ēthos' (character, custom).
How & Where It’s Used
Used in philosophy, professions, and everyday judgment.