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

Anna Powles, associate professor in security studies at Massey University in New Zealand, said the deal would help modernise PNG's army, bringing a significant boost in both material and morale terms.

From BBC

Agents regarded these moves as a purge, and press reports claimed that bureau morale was at an all-time low, charges that Gray denied.

From Salon

Good timing by the Cardinals, catching a Titans team that could be low on morale and is definitely low on scoring.

From Los Angeles Times

Still, a comprehensive win with a significant net run-rate boost gives India the perfect start and morale boost as they seek their first World Cup win in either format.

From BBC

There is palpably high morale, driven by a deep sense of patriotism, and probable relief at getting out of their prison cells.

From BBC

Related Words

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