moral compass

American  

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

noun

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.

---

Etymology

Origin of moral compass

First recorded in 1840–45

Example Sentences

“For us, being a pacifist country wasn’t just a political label. It has been our moral compass after the tragedy,” said Yagi.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

And the more one relies on vice signaling as a style of action and communication, the less relevant and powerful the in-group’s moral compass is as a practical constraint on anyone’s behavior.

From Salon • Jan. 29, 2026

Fail here, and we confirm that international relations have lost their moral compass entirely.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 23, 2026

Morgan said she understood there were "complexities and we need the United States" but added "if you don't hold on to international law you lose your moral compass".

From BBC • Jan. 8, 2026

I asked myself if there were not in the moral compass of men, who wander by land, some guiding star, as there is for those who wander over sea.

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