scruple
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1scru·ple

noun \ˈskrü-pəl\

Definition of SCRUPLE

1
: a unit of capacity equal to 124 Apothecaries' ounce — see weight table
2
: a minute part or quantity : iota

Origin of SCRUPLE

Middle English scrupil, scriple, from Anglo-French scruple, from Latin scrupulus a unit of weight, diminutive of scrupus sharp stone
First Known Use: 14th century

Rhymes with SCRUPLE

2scruple

noun

Definition of SCRUPLE

1
: an ethical consideration or principle that inhibits action
2
: the quality or state of being scrupulous
3
: mental reservation

Origin of SCRUPLE

Middle English scripil, scrupill, from Anglo-French scruble, from Latin scrupulus, diminutive of scrupus source of uneasiness, literally, sharp stone
First Known Use: 15th century

3scruple

intransitive verb
scru·pledscru·pling \-p(ə-)liŋ\

Definition of SCRUPLE

1
: to have scruples
2
: to show reluctance on grounds of conscience : hesitate

Examples of SCRUPLE

  1. <a tabloid journalist who has never scrupled to reveal the most intimate details about the lives of celebrities>

First Known Use of SCRUPLE

1627

scru·ple

noun \ˈskrü-pəl\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of SCRUPLE

: a unit of apothecaries' weight equal to 20 grains or 13 dram or 1.296 grams

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