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

Many observers perceive a partisan as well as principled divide on the current court.

From Salon

Cabinet minister Mairi Gougeon hit back, saying the Scottish government was taking a principled position and that unlike the UK government "when we have principles, we stick to them".

From BBC

This reflects the new California model: principled resistance and pragmatic governance.

From Los Angeles Times

His know-nothing rabble-rousing appalled progressives who otherwise admired him for his principled stands against the Vietnam War and in favor of campaign finance reform.

From Los Angeles Times

They continue to desperately search for “principled conservatives,” those “adults in the room” who “believe in the institutions” to stop him.

From Salon

Related Words

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