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Synonyms

morally

American  
[mawr-uh-lee, mor-] / ˈmɔr ə li, ˈmɒr- /

adverb

  1. in a moral manner.

  2. from a moral point of view.

    morally reprehensible.

  3. virtuously.

  4. virtually; practically.


Etymology

Origin of morally

First recorded in 1350–1400; moral + -ly

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.

Frances Perkins, Franklin Roosevelt’s Labor secretary, recalled having to clean up the agency — not just morally and ethically, but with broom and bucket, when she took over from William Nuckles Doak, Herbert Hoover’s appointee.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 22, 2026

The Army itself advises soldiers to “maintain the high ground,” and research shows that rapid-fire calls made under pressure by the morally immature lead to disaster.

From Slate • Apr. 13, 2026

Also offering fine support are K. Todd Freeman and Michael Benjamin Washington as Willy’s neighbor Charley and his son, who illustrate by their starkly contrasting values how Willy has morally failed himself and his children.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The real prize, financially and morally, would be luring home some of the dozens of Indian family offices that have moved to Dubai in recent years.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

I say that it was morally wrong if it was secretly given and secretly handled.

From "Words Like Loaded Pistols" by Sam Leith