principle meaning and definition

PRINCIPLE noun

Definition of principle (noun)

1. a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
   • "their principles of composition characterized all their works"
   • synonyms: rule
2. a rule or standard especially of good behavior
   • "a man of principle"; "he will not violate his principles"
3. a basic truth or law or assumption
   • "the principles of democracy"
4. a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
   • "the principle of the conservation of mass"; "the principle of jet propulsion"; "the right-hand rule for inductive fields"
   • synonyms: rule
5. rule of personal conduct
   • synonyms: precept
6. (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)
   • "the rationale for capital punishment"; "the principles of internal-combustion engines"
   • synonyms: rationale