moral compass

American  

[mawr-uhl kuhm-puhs, mor-] / ˈmɔr əl ˈkʌm pəs, ˈmɒr- /

noun

• moral compasses
  plural

1. an internalized set of values and objectives that guide a person with regard to ethical behavior and decision-making.

   a rebellious teenager without a moral compass.

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Other Word Forms

Noun Inflected Forms

• moral compasses
  plural

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Etymology

Origin of moral compass

First recorded in 1840–45

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

moral compass

Tata Trusts, which represents seven philanthropic trusts that own the majority stake in the group, is widely regarded as its moral compass, guiding the businesses on social impact and philanthropy.

From BBC ● Oct. 12, 2026

Mullen, forever the band's stoic moral compass, was not impressed by the invasion.

From BBC ● Sep. 25, 2026

The more Mary affords grace to others, the more she gains confidence in who she is, as a person with a strong moral compass forged away from her mother’s ambitions.

From Salon ● Jun. 25, 2026

“The public narrative that has emerged could not be further from the woman I know,” wrote one friend, who described Sangha as having a strong moral compass.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 8, 2026

"The guiding star for my moral compass," said I, under my breath.

From Lords of the North by Agnes C. (Agnes Christina) Laut

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