principle

prin-ci-ple · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A fundamental truth or proposition serving as a foundation for belief or action.

  2. 2.

    A rule or belief governing one's personal behavior.

  3. 3.

    A general scientific law or rule.

  4. 4.

    A fundamental source or basis of something.

Forms

plural: principles

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    in principle — In theory; as a general idea.
  • •
    on principle — Because of one's beliefs, not practical reasons.
  • •
    a matter of principle — Something important to one's values.
  • •
    first principles — Fundamental concepts from which others derive.

Related words

See also: belief, rule, standard, value
Synonyms: belief, doctrine, rule, standard

Etymology

From Anglo-Norman French, from Old French principe, from Latin principium ("source, foundation, beginning"), from princeps ("first, chief").