concern with the distinction between good and evil or right and wrong; right or good conduct
"The debate centered on his morality, as critics argued that his actions lacked any regard for the distinction between right and wrong."
motivation based on ideas of right and wrong
"Her decision to return the lost wallet was driven entirely by her strong sense of morality rather than fear of getting caught."
Recognition of the distinction between good and evil or between right and wrong; respect for and obedience to the rules of right conduct; the mental disposition or characteristic of behaving in a manner intended to produce morally good results.
"Her unwavering morality guided her every decision, ensuring she always acted with integrity and respected fundamental ethical principles."
In plain English: Morality is your personal sense of right and wrong that guides how you behave toward others.
"She decided to help her neighbor because she believed in basic morality."
Usage: Morality refers specifically to principles concerning right and wrong behavior rather than personal character traits. Use it when discussing ethical standards, moral codes, or judgments about actions instead of synonyms like virtue or integrity.
The word morality comes from the Anglo-Norman and Middle French forms of Late Latin moralitas, which originally meant "character" or "custom." It entered English through these Romance languages rather than directly from its root meaning in classical Latin.