moral compass

noun

plural moral compasses

: a set of beliefs or values that help guide ethical decisions, judgments, and behavior : an internal sense of right and wrong

Mr. Mandela was unique. How often in a generation does a giant walk among us, with brilliance and courage, guided by an immaculate moral compass?

—Tayari Jones

There are common causes for lapses in ethical judgment that can include ego, power, greed, fear, compulsion, embarrassment, rationalization, or basic lack of a moral compass.

—Kevin Woodhouse

Women who work hard to make businesses and communities better and help set our moral compasses with their actions are my heroes.

—Edie Boan

also : someone or something that serves as a standard for guiding moral choices, judgments, or behavior

Here was the lead character, the show's moral compass, played by its best-known actor—and this is what happens to him?

—Kristi Turnquist

In his role as manager of Changes Group Home in New London, Henderson serves as a moral compass for young men who need direction.

—Tim Frogerg

Examples of moral compass in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

But the reaction to Solis’ cooperation with the feds is even more telling, showing how the moral compass of the council is so broken that many members seem to prioritize loyalty over integrity. —Ray Long, Chicago Tribune, 8 Sep. 2024

This is indicative of Dr. Gray’s beliefs and the moral compass that has driven him throughout his life. —William Mullane, USA TODAY, 6 Sep. 2024

Bakalova captures Ivana's conflicted love for Donald and the trappings of his lifestyle while emphasizing that Ivana at least still had some degree of a moral compass. —Maureen Lee Lenker, EW.com, 1 Sep. 2024

With time running out, contradicting rumors circulating, and the lives of the hostages at stake, Geoff has to make difficult decisions and reflect on his own moral compass. —Leo Barraclough, Variety, 15 Aug. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1814, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

moral compass

noun

: a set of beliefs or values that help guide ethical decisions, judgments, and behavior : an internal sense of right and wrong