SINCE 1828 M E N U

1 scruple
noun | scruple | \skr-pl\
Popularity: Bottom 50% of words

Tip: Synonym Guide

Examples: scruple in a Sentence

Definition of scruple
1 : a unit of capacity equal to 124 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

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 2
scruple
noun | 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

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

3
scruple
verb | scruple

Definition of scruple

scrupled; scrupling \-p(-)li\

i n t r a n s i t i v e v e r b

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1 : to have scruples
2 : to show reluctance on grounds of conscience : hesitate

See scruple defined for English-language learners

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 Synonyms
Synonyms
balance, dither, falter, halt, hang back, hesitate, shilly-shally, stagger, teeter, vacillate, waver, wobble (also wabble)
Antonyms
dive (in), plunge (in)
S C RU P L E D e n e d f o r E n g l i s h L a n g u a

scruple
verb
Definition of scruple for English Language Learners

: to be unwilling to do something because you think it is improper, morally wrong, etc.

S C RU P L E D e n e d f o r K i d s

scruple
noun | scruple | \skr-pl\
Definition 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

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 M e d i c a l D i c t i o n a r y

scruple
noun | scruple | \skr-pl\
Medical Definition of scruple

: a unit of apothecaries' weight equal to 20 grains or 13 dram or 1.296 grams

Learn More about scruple

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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