Definition of scruple
1 : a unit of capacity equal to 1⁄24 Apothecaries' ounce — see weight table
2 : a minute part or quantity : iota
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Origin and Etymology of scruple
Middle English scrupil, scriple, from Anglo-French scruple, from Latin scrupulus a unit of weight, diminutive of scrupus sharp stone
scruple
Definition of scruple
1 : an ethical consideration or principle that inhibits action
2 : the quality or state of being scrupulous
3 : mental reservation
Origin and Etymology of scruple
Middle English scripil, scrupill, from Anglo-French scruble, from Latin scrupulus, diminutive of scrupus source of uneasiness, literally, sharp stone
Synonym Discussion of scruple
Examples of scruple in a Sentence
a tabloid journalist who has never scrupled to reveal the most intimate details about the lives of celebrities
First Known Use of scruple
1627
SCRUPLE Defined for English Language Learners
scruple
Definition of scruple for English Language Learners
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: to be unwilling to do something because you think it is improper, morally wrong, etc.
SCRUPLE Defined for Kids
scruple
playDefinition of scruple for Students
1 : a sense of right and wrong that keeps a person from doing something bad
2 : a feeling of guilt from doing something bad
Medical Dictionary
scruple
playMedical Definition of scruple
: a unit of apothecaries' weight equal to 20 grains or 1⁄3 dram or 1.296 grams
Learn More about scruple
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See words that rhyme with scruple Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for scruple Spanish Central: Translation of scruple Nglish: Translation of scruple for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of scruple for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about scruple
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