Definition of ethical
1 : of or relating to ethics ethical theories
2 : involving or expressing moral approval or disapproval ethical judgments
3 : conforming to accepted standards of conduct ethical behavior
4 of a drug : restricted to sale only on a doctor's prescription
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Examples of ethical in a Sentence
Some doctors feel that this procedure is not medically ethical.
the ethical behavior expected of every member of the police force
Recent Examples of ethical from the Web
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Mr Shaub believes that Mr Trump has rejected ethical norms embraced by all other administrations since the 1970s.
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A family's ability to afford endless care usually poses a bigger obstacle than ethical disagreements.
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Ethical debates aside, colorization adds a common thread to the moments captured in America in Color: a modernizing, visceral narrative lens.
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This system of God ethics differs from ethical humanism.
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Looking up your husband's records and disclosing his diagnosis was a serious legal and ethical violation on your sister's part.
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Watson has come to be known for her ethical choices in wardrobe.
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The report, by Michael Meyer of the Department of Education's office of general counsel, also says evidence absolved Pouncey of any ethical problems.
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Part of the episode hinged on an ethical dilemma not unlike the one discussed at the end of the first season.
These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'ethical.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Origin and Etymology of ethical
Middle English etik, from Latin ethicus, from Greek ēthikos, from ēthos character — more at sib
Synonym Discussion of ethical
Other Philosophy Terms
ETHICAL Defined for English Language Learners
ethical
playDefinition of ethical for English Language Learners
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: involving questions of right and wrong behavior : relating to ethics
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: following accepted rules of behavior : morally right and good
ETHICAL Defined for Kids
ethical
playDefinition of ethical for Students
1 : involving questions of right and wrong : relating to ethics ethical issues
2 : following accepted rules of behavior We expect ethical treatment of animals.
Medical Dictionary
ethical
Medical Definition of ethical
: an ethical drug
Law Dictionary
ethical
playLegal Definition of ethical
1 : of or relating to ethics
2 : conforming to accepted professional standards of conduct
ethically
adverbLearn More about ethical
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Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for ethical Spanish Central: Translation of ethical Nglish: Translation of ethical for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of ethical for Arabic speakers
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