Conscionable

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈkɔn.ʃən.ə.bəl/

Definitions

1. This term refers to qualities that are in harmony with one's moral sense, conveying fairness and rationality in ethical considerations
2. It indicates a state of being that aligns with conscience and principles of justice, embodying an ethical correctness
3. This descriptor signifies a nature that reflects ethical soundness and moral responsibility, highlighting fairness and just actions in various contexts

Etymology: "Conscionable" is built from "conscion," an obsolete variant of "conscience," plus the suffix "-able," meaning "capable of being" or "fit for." The word therefore describes what is fit to be done in line with a person's conscience. Its meaning has narrowed over time: where "conscience" was once used more loosely for consciousness and inner knowledge, "conscionable" settled into a sense of matters that a sense of right and wrong would approve. The suffix does the work here. "-able" was attached to many English verbs and nouns to form adjectives, and "conscionable" follows the same pattern as words like "reasonable" and "honourable." Because "conscion" itself has largely dropped out of use, the adjective now looks a little like a word that has outlived the form it was built on.

Synonyms: ethical, fair, reasonable, just, moral

Antonyms: unethical, unfair, immoral, unjust, irresponsible