probity
noun
The quality of having strong moral principles; honesty and decency. Integrity demonstrated through consistent ethical behavior.
Etymology
From Latin "probitas" (uprightness, honesty), from "probus" (good, honest). Related to "prove" and "probable"—suggesting someone whose honesty can be proved.
Examples in Use
- 1.
"Her probity made her the obvious choice for treasurer."
- 2.
"The institution's reputation for probity attracted ethical investors."
- 3.
"Public servants must maintain the highest standards of probity."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Ancient Romans valued "probitas" as essential to public life. Cicero argued that without personal probity, public virtue was impossible—a standard invoked in debates about political ethics ever since.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 7 letters (P, R, O, B, I, T, Y)
Scrabble Value: 14 points
Tip: Try building from common prefixes or suffixes when you spot these letters.
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