morality
muh-RA-lih-tee
Morality (noun) means the distinction between right and wrong, and the principles that guide good behaviour. Example: “Many children first learn about morality from the stories their parents read to them.”
noun
1
The distinction between right and wrong, and the principles that guide good behaviour.
"Many children first learn about morality from the stories their parents read to them."
"The debate raised deep questions about morality."
"Different cultures have different ideas about morality."
2
A particular set of beliefs, customs, or rules about acceptable conduct.
"The traditional morality of the village frowned on gambling and heavy drinking."
"Her personal morality forbids her from telling even the smallest lie."
"Victorian morality placed heavy emphasis on modesty."
How to use morality
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishIdeas and standards about what is right and wrong.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a question of morality
public morality
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Word forms
- Plural
- moralities
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Etymology
From Old French moralité, from Late Latin mōrālitās, from Latin mōrālis, "relating to manners or morals."
Synonyms
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Related words
Rhymes for morality
See all rhymes for morality →Frequently asked questions
What does “morality” mean?
The word “morality” means the distinction between right and wrong, and the principles that guide good behaviour. In plain terms, ideas and standards about what is right and wrong.
How do you pronounce “morality”?
“Morality” is pronounced muh-RA-lih-tee (/məˈɹælɪti/ in IPA).
How do you use “morality” in a sentence?
Here is “morality” used in a sentence: “The debate raised deep questions about morality.”
What is the opposite of “morality”?
The opposite of “morality” — its antonyms — are amorality and immorality.
What part of speech is “morality”?
“Morality” is a noun.
Where does the word “morality” come from?
The word “morality” comes from Late Latin. From Old French moralité, from Late Latin mōrālitās, from Latin mōrālis, "relating to manners or morals.".
Is “morality” a common word?
“Morality” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “morality” have?
“Morality” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the distinction between right and wrong, and the principles that guide good behaviour.
What is the difference between morality and ethics?
Morality generally refers to the distinction between right and wrong and the principles that guide good behaviour, often shaped by personal belief or culture, while ethics more commonly refers to a formal or philosophical study of moral principles, such as professional or academic ethics. In everyday use, though, the two terms overlap heavily.
What is the difference between morality and law?
Morality concerns beliefs about right and wrong conduct, which may or may not be codified, while law is a formal system of rules enforced by a governing authority. Something can be considered immoral without being illegal, and vice versa.
Can morality vary between cultures?
Yes, morality can refer to a particular set of beliefs, customs, or rules about acceptable conduct, meaning different cultures or groups can hold different moralities even while sharing the broader concept of distinguishing right from wrong.
