Moral
/ˈmɒrəl/
Definitions
2 meaningsConcerned with the principles of right and wrong behavior and the goodness or badness of human character.
/ˈmɒrəl/
Relating to principles of right and wrong behavior.
He has a strong moral compass.
💡 Simply: Moral is like having a good set of rules for how to treat people. It's about being kind, fair, and doing what's right, like helping a friend or sharing your toys. If someone is moral, it means they usually try to do what's good.
👶 For kids: Being moral means knowing what's right and wrong.
More Examples
The story has a clear moral message.
It is a moral obligation to help those in need.
They debated the moral implications of the new technology.
How It's Used
"Moral philosophy explores ethical principles."
"The legal system is based on societal moral standards."
A lesson concerning right and wrong; a principle upheld or taught by a person, a culture, etc.
/ˈmɒrəl/
A lesson, especially one concerning right and wrong, or a practical lesson about how to behave.
The moral of the story is 'honesty is the best policy'.
💡 Simply: The moral of a story is the main idea about how to act or what's important. It's like a little piece of wisdom the story wants to share, telling you what's good and what's bad, like when you learn not to lie because it hurts people's feelings.
👶 For kids: The moral is the lesson you learn about being good.
More Examples
The book presented a simple moral.
The moral of the situation was, don't judge a book by its cover.
They debated the moral of the play.
How It's Used
"The moral of the fable is to be content with what you have."
"The teacher discussed the moral of the story with the students."
Idioms & expressions
moral high ground
A position of perceived superior morality or righteousness, often used to criticize others.
"She often takes the moral high ground, even when she's wrong."
moral of the story
The lesson or point that can be learned from a story or event.
"The moral of the story is to always tell the truth."
From Latin *moralis* 'relating to manners or morals,' which derives from *mos* 'manner, custom.'
The word has been used since the 14th century to describe actions in relation to ethical principles.
Memory tip
Think of a *moral* compass guiding your actions to do the right thing.