1. A basic truth, law or assumption
   "the principles of democracy"
    
2. A basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct
   "their principles of composition characterized all their works";
   - rule
    
3. A moral belief or value that guides behaviour
   "a man of principle"; "he will not violate his principles"
    
4. A fundamental rule, truth, or guideline for action or conduct
   "Honesty is a fundamental principle in her life";
   - precept, maxim
    
5. A rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
   "the principle of the conservation of mass";
   - rule
    
6. The fundamental reasons or logic behind something; the justification for something
   "the principles of internal-combustion engines";
   - rationale

Sounds like: prince, pnciple, pri

Derived forms: principles

Type of: explanation, generalisation [Brit], generality, generalization, law, law of nature, natural law, prescript, rule, value

Part of: ethic, ethical code

Encyclopedia: Principle