scruples Meaning, Definition & Usage

1. noun motivation deriving logically from ethical or moral principles that govern a person's thoughts and actions
   conscience; sense of right and wrong; moral sense.
   
2. noun a unit of apothecary weight equal to 20 grains
   scruple.
   
3. noun uneasiness about the fitness of an action
   scruple; misgiving; qualm.
   
4. noun an ethical or moral principle that inhibits action
   scruple.
   
5. verb hesitate on moral grounds
   scruple.
   
   • The man scrupled to perjure himself
6. verb raise scruples
   scruple.
   
   • He lied and did not even scruple about it
7. verb have doubts about
   scruple.
   

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