What does morality mean?
Morality is the quality or state of being morally good, particularly in relation to the principles that distinguish right from wrong. It can also describe the ethical standards of a person, community, religion, or society, as in a debate over public morality. In literature, a morality story or play presents a clear lesson about virtue, vice, and its consequences. The word often carries a serious, traditional tone and may suggest firm adherence to moral principles rather than the more general concept of ethics. Understanding morality helps distinguish personal conduct from shared social standards, while also showing how ideas about right and wrong shape communities, institutions, and individual decisions.
nounMorality is the quality or state of being morally good, especially in relation to the principles or standards that distinguish right from wrong. It can also refer to a particular system of ethical beliefs or a moral lesson.
- The quality or state of being morally good, especially in relation to right and wrong.
- A system or body of moral principles, beliefs, or standards.
- A moral lesson or example, especially in a story or play.
"The politician refused to compromise his morality for political advantage."
"She acted from a strong sense of morality and refused to accept the bribe."
"The novel is a morality tale about greed and the consequences of dishonesty."
Usually plural when referring to different systems of ethical principles or moral frameworks, as in “the moralities of different cultures.”
"The study compared the moralities of several historical societies."
Morality comes from the Latin mos, meaning custom or character, so its history traces the journey from a community's habits to the ethical standards by which people judge right and wrong.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does morality come from?
Morality comes from the Latin moralitas, meaning moral character or a system of morals, and is related to moralis, “pertaining to morals or character.” The underlying Latin mos or mores referred to custom, habit, or character, including the established practices of a community. Over time, the word developed into its modern English sense of ethical character or standards. Its cognates include moral, morale, and moralist, all reflecting the same Latin foundation.
Related word forms
How morality is actually used
The term is generally formal and can sound more traditional or emphatic than the broader words ethics and morals. In literary contexts, it may refer to a moral lesson, as in a morality play or morality tale.
Easily confused with morality
Morality concerns ethical principles and right conduct, whereas morale concerns the confidence and spirit shared by a group.