principle

prin·ci·ple

noun \ˈprin(t)-s(ə-)pəl, -sə-bəl\

Definition of PRINCIPLE

1

a : a comprehensive and fundamental law, doctrine, or assumption b (1) : a rule or code of conduct (2) : habitual devotion to right principles <a man of principle> c : the laws or facts of nature underlying the working of an artificial device

2

: a primary source : origin

3

a : an underlying faculty or endowment <such principles of human nature as greed and curiosity> b : an ingredient (as a chemical) that exhibits or imparts a characteristic quality

4

capitalized Christian Science : a divine principle : god

— in principle

: with respect to fundamentals <prepared to accept the proposition in principle>

Usage Discussion of PRINCIPLE

Although nearly every handbook and many dictionaries warn against confusing principle and principal, many people still do. Principle is only a noun; principal is both adjective and noun. If you are unsure which noun you want, read the definitions in this dictionary.

Examples of PRINCIPLE

1. His investment strategy is based on the principle that the stock market offers the best returns for long-term investors.
2. the basic principles of hydraulics
3. Urban guerrilla warfare was futile against a thermonuclear superstate that would stop at nothing to defend the profit principle. —Philip Roth, American Pastoral, 1997
4. Better, of course, to take a higher road, operate on the principle of service and see if things don't turn out better … —Richard Ford, Independence Day, 1995
5. Pointlessness was life's principle, and it spread its sadness. —Arthur Miller, Timebends, 1987

Origin of PRINCIPLE

Middle English, from Middle French principe, principle, from Old French, from Latin principium beginning, from princip-, princeps initiator — more at prince

First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with PRINCIPLE

principal