conscience

/kɑnˈʃæns/

Definitions

1. noun

the part of the mind that makes judgments about moral or ethical matters, especially in relation to the individual’s own behavior

“She felt guilty about lying and hoped to clear her conscience.”

2. noun

the sense of right and wrong that guides an individual’s behavior

“Having a strong conscience helped him make decisions that benefited everyone.”

3. noun

a person’s inner sense of morality

“His conscience was troubled by the company’s involvement in environmental pollution.”

4. verb

to make someone feel guilty or uneasy about their actions

“The revelation of the scandal will conscience the politicians into taking action.”

5. verb

to calm or quiet someone’s conscience

“The act of charity helped to conscience her guilt and made her feel better.”

Synonyms

  • ethics
  • guilt
  • integrity
  • morality

Antonyms

  • indifference
  • negligence
  • obliviousness
  • recklessness