First Known Use: 14th century
Dictionary
1scruple
noun scru·ple \ˈskrü-pəl\
Definition of SCRUPLE
1
— see weight table
2
: a minute part or quantity : iota
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Origin of SCRUPLE
Middle English scrupil, scriple, from Anglo-French scruple, from Latin scrupulus a unit of weight, diminutive of scrupus sharp stone
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
Synonym Discussion of SCRUPLE
qualm, scruple, compunction, demur mean a misgiving about what one is doing or going to do. qualm implies an uneasy fear that one is not following one's conscience or better judgment <no qualms about plagiarizing>. scruple implies doubt of the rightness of an act on grounds of principle <no scruples against buying stolen goods>. compunction implies a spontaneous feeling of responsibility or compassion for a potential victim <had compunctions about lying>. demur implies hesitation caused by objection to an outside suggestion or influence <accepted her decision without demur>.
3scruple
intransitive verb
: to be unwilling to do something because you think it is improper, morally wrong, etc.
scru·pledscru·pling \-p(ə-)liŋ\
Full Definition of SCRUPLE
1
: to have scruples
2
: to show reluctance on grounds of conscience : hesitate
First Known Use of SCRUPLE
1627
SCRUPLE Defined for Kids
scruple
noun scru·ple \ˈskrü-pəl\
Definition of SCRUPLE for Kids
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
noun scru·ple \ˈskrü-pəl\
Medical Definition of SCRUPLE
: a unit of apothecaries' weight equal to 20 grains or 1⁄3 dram or 1.296 grams
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