Principled

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈpɹɪnsɪpəld/

Definitions

1. Defined by a steadfast loyalty to ethical values and morals
2. Demonstrating a firm commitment to ethics and honesty in behavior
3. Acting consistently according to a clear sense of right and wrong

Etymology: "Principled" is about as plain as English etymology gets: it is simply "principle" with the adjective-forming ending "-ed" attached. The base word "principle" came into English from Old French "principle," itself from Latin "principium," meaning "beginning" or "foundation," which is also the root of "prince" in its older sense of a leading figure. The "-ed" ending here works the way it does in words like "talented" or "moneyed," meaning "having" or "possessing" the thing named. A principled person is therefore one who has principles, a foundation of settled ethical commitments that guide their conduct, rather than one who simply reacts to circumstances.

Synonyms: ethical, moral, upright, virtuous, honest

Antonyms: unprincipled, immoral, dishonest, corrupt, deceitful