Scrupulously

Part of speech: adverb

Pronunciation: /ˈskɹuːpjʊləsli/

Definitions

1. In a manner showing extreme care to avoid doing anything wrong or unethical
2. With great attention to detail, one acts in a way that consistently adheres to high moral standards and avoids wrongdoing
3. Demonstrating meticulousness, one behaves in a conscientious manner, ensuring ethical integrity and precision in actions

Etymology: The Latin "scrupulus" was a diminutive of "scrupus," meaning a sharp stone, and the figurative sense of anxiety grew from the image of a pebble lodged in a shoe. Someone who was scrupulous was, in effect, troubled by a small irritant that would not let them rest until it was removed, so careful attention followed naturally from that discomfort. The adjective "scrupulous" came into English from Middle French "scrupuleux," which itself derived from the Latin "scrupulosus," meaning careful or punctilious. Over time the word moved from the literal pebble to a mental state of unease and then to a habit of precise, conscientious conduct. The adverb "scrupulously" is simply the adjective with the English suffix "-ly" attached, describing actions carried out with that same exacting care.

Synonyms: meticulously, thoroughly, conscientiously, carefully, diligently

Antonyms: carelessly, negligently, recklessly, sloppily, hastily