ethics

Estimated CEFR level: C2 — Proficiency

Estimated from word frequency; not an official CEFR classification.

Definition

  1. noun motivation based on ideas of right and wrong
  2. noun the philosophical study of moral values and rules
  3. noun the principles of right and wrong that are accepted by an individual or a social group

Etymology

From Middle English etik, from Middle French ethique, from Late Latin ethica, from Ancient Greek ἠθική (ēthikḗ), from ἠθικός (ēthikós, “of or for morals, moral, expressing character”), from ἦθος (êthos, “character, moral nature”).

Synonyms

ethical motive, morals, morality

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