Scrupule
/ˈskruː.pjʊl/noun
A French word meaning a scruple, conscience-based doubt, or moral hesitation.
Did you know?In Latin, a scrupulus was literally a tiny sharp stone, and that physical irritation became a metaphor for the nagging sting of conscience.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*(s)ker-
“to cut, scratch, or make sharp”
Latin
Latin
scrupulus
“a small sharp stone; a pebble causing discomfort in a shoe”
Late Latin
Latin
scrupulus
“a moral or mental unease, a prick of conscience”
Old French
Old French
scrupule
“doubt, hesitation, or conscientious hesitation”
Modern English
English
scruple
“a moral doubt or ethical hesitation”
Explore more surprising origins