Integrity

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ɪnˈtɛɡɹəti/

Definitions

1. The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that guide one's actions consistently
2. The state of being whole and undivided alongside adherence to moral and ethical principles in actions and behaviors is essential for character development
3. A commitment to honesty and moral uprightness, coupled with the consistency of actions, defines a person’s ethical character

Etymology: The concept behind this word is deeply rooted in the idea of wholeness and completeness. It originates from the Latin adjective "integer," which meant "whole," "untouched," or "complete." This sense of something being entire and unimpaired laid the foundation for the modern abstract meaning associated with moral soundness and honesty. The transition from Latin to English occurred through Old French "integrité," which retained the sense of wholeness and purity. By the late Middle Ages, the term was used in English to describe the state of being whole or undiminished. Over time, the meaning expanded beyond the physical or numerical sense of completeness to embrace the ethical dimension of incorruptibility and steadfast adherence to moral principles. This shift likely reflects the metaphorical extension of integrity as a quality that keeps a person “whole” in character, unbroken by deceit or corruption. Thus, the word evolved to signify not just an unbroken state but a positive moral quality—being trustworthy, sincere, and upright. The pronunciation we use today, with stress on the second syllable, has stabilized over centuries of usage. While the word’s roots lie in tangible wholeness, its enduring appeal is found in describing the intangible strength of character that holds people together as reliable and honorable.

Synonyms: honesty, uprightness, wholeness

Antonyms: dishonesty, corruption