Etymology

From Latin principium

English

Noun

principle, plural principles

1. A fundamental assumption

   We need some sort of principles to reason from.

2. A rule used to choose among solutions to a problem.

   The principle of least privilege holds that a process should only receive the permissions it needs.

3. (generally plural) Moral rule or aspect.

   I don't doubt your principles; you are clearly a person of principle.

   It's the princple of the thing; I won't do business with someone I can't trust.

4. (somewhat dated) A fundamental essence, particularly one producing a given quality.

   Many believe that life is the result of some vital principle.

   Cathartine is the bitter, purgative principle of senna. — Gregory.

5. (obsolete) A beginning.

   Doubting sad end of principle unsound. — Spenser.

Translations

• Finnish periaate (1, 2)
• Latin: principium n
• Spanish , m

Transitive Verb

principle, principled

1. equip with principles. Generally used in the past participle.

   Governors should be well principled. --L'Estrange.

Usage note

Principle is often confused with principal. Consult both definitions if in doubt.

Related Terms

• first principles
• matter of principle
• on principle
• principal
• principled stance