Definition: Ethics

eth·ics ( éthiks )

noun

Definitions:

study of morality's effect on conduct: the study of moral standards and how they affect conduct ( takes a singular verb )

plural 
noun

Definitions:

code of morality:
a system of moral principles governing the appropriate conduct for a person or group ( takes a plural verb )

15th century. Via Old French ethiques - Greek ēthika - ēthikos (see ethic)

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Definition: Ethic

eth·ic ( éthik )

noun

Definitions:

set of principles:
a system of moral standards or principles
.the Protestant work ethic

Late 19th century. Via French éthique - Greek ēthikos
"ethical" - ēthos (see ethos)

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Definition: ethical

eth·i·cal ( éthik'l)

adjective

Definitions:

1. conforming to accepted standards: consistent with agreed principles of correct moral conduct

While such activities are not strictly illegal, they are certainly not ethical.

2. of ethics: relating to or involving ethics

3. pharmacology available by prescription only: describes a prescription drug

eth·i·cal·i·ty ( èthi káll_tee) n
eth·i·cal·lyadv
eth·i·cal·nessn

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