morale

[muh-ral]

noun

1. emotional or mental condition with respect to cheerfulness, confidence, zeal, etc., especially in the face of opposition, hardship, etc..

   the morale of the troops.

morale

/ mɒˈrɑːl /

noun

1. the degree of mental or moral confidence of a person or group; spirit of optimism

Word History and Origins

Origin of morale¹

First recorded in 1745–55; from French, noun use of feminine of moral “custom”; moral

Word History and Origins

Origin of morale¹

C18: morals, from French, n. use of _moral (adj)

Example Sentences

Daniels: That quality of morale being low is very “Office”-like.

From Los Angeles Times

Two employees at Yosemite National Park described rock-bottom morale amid recent turmoil — and a sense that the union could provide an avenue for change.

From Los Angeles Times

The carefully planned killing of a former prison officer simply for doing his job has "horrified" the profession and damaged morale, according to a union chief.

From BBC

The lawsuit, considered frivolous by 1st Amendment experts, damaged the morale of the news division and likely led to the ouster of Owens in April.

From Los Angeles Times

“During that period, morale was low, many officers were sidelined due to injuries, and the department was stretched thin,” he wrote.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• attitude 
• mood 
• resolve 
• self-confidence 
• spirit