principled

[prin-suh-puhld]

adjective

1. imbued with or having moral principles (often used in combination).

   high-principled.

principled

/ ˈprɪnsɪpəld /

adjective

1. 1. having high moral principles

   2. ( in combination )

      high-principled

Other Word Forms

• misprincipled adjective
• nonprincipled adjective
• well-principled adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of principled¹

First recorded in 1635–45; principle + -ed ³

Example Sentences

“They’re so principled and motivated, even if it’s in a nihilistic way,” she said.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The professor takes a principled stand against the think tank’s bad turn.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

The lone "nay" came from the Republican lawmaker from Louisiana, Clay Higgins, who defied his party saying his vote was a principled "NO".

Read more on BBC

He has taught generations of principled conservatives from his position at Princeton, standing athwart the Rawlsian liberalism regnant in the academy.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

While I disagree with him on many matters, I’ve always regarded him as principled and honorable, so his response to these events doesn’t surprise me.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• conscientious 
• decent 
• equitable 
• honest 
• honorable 
• humane 
• moral 
• moralistic 
• noble 
• righteous 
• virtuous