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moral compass

American

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

noun

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.

Etymology

Origin of moral compass

First recorded in 1840–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

But these thoughts are known as ego-dystonic, which means they are in direct conflict with that person's beliefs and moral compass.

From BBC • Apr. 29, 2026

We once endured conditions far worse than today without losing our moral compass.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 15, 2026

After two years of dating Marty, a cute roller hockey player with an unwavering moral compass, I knew I wanted to have a child with him.

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 22, 2025

First of all, I wish some of my previous landlords had your moral compass.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 11, 2025

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

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

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023