principled

[prin-suh-puhld]

adjective

1. imbued with or having moral principles (often used in combination).

   high-principled.

principled

/ ˈprɪnsɪpəld /

adjective

1. 1. having high moral principles

   2. ( in combination )

      high-principled

Other Word Forms

• misprincipled adjective
• nonprincipled adjective
• well-principled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of principled¹

First recorded in 1635–45; principle + -ed ³

Example Sentences

They continue to desperately search for “principled conservatives,” those “adults in the room” who “believe in the institutions” to stop him.

From Salon

That gives him a particular responsibility to model principled conduct for newer members.

From Los Angeles Times

Former Vice President Kamala Harris voiced support for Collier, calling the representative “strong” and “principled.”

From Salon

“Emil is the most capable and principled lawyer I have ever known,” he wrote in a Fox News opinion column.

From Los Angeles Times

The president has also targeted former Rep. Liz Cheney, who served as vice-chair of the House of Representatives Jan. 6 Select Committee, along with other Republicans and principled conservatives he deems disloyal.

From Salon

Related Words

• conscientious 
• decent 
• equitable 
• honest 
• honorable 
• humane 
• moral 
• moralistic 
• noble 
• righteous 
• virtuous