principle principle /ˈprɪnsəpəl/

noun

1. () A basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct  ( rule , principle )
   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
   their principles of composition characterized all their works
   
2. () A rule or standard especially of good behavior  ( principle )
   a rule or standard especially of good behavior
    A man of principle
   a man of principle
    He will not violate his principles
   he will not violate his principles
   
3. () A basic truth, law or assumption  ( principle )
   a basic truth, law or assumption
    The principles of democracy
   the principles of democracy
   
4. () A rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system  ( rule , principle )
   a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system
    The principle of the conservation of mass
   the principle of the conservation of mass
    The principle of jet propulsion
   the principle of jet propulsion
    The right-hand rule for inductive fields
   the right-hand rule for inductive fields
   
5. () (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)  ( principle , rationale )
   (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature)
    The rationale for capital punishment
   the rationale for capital punishment
    The principles of internal-combustion engines
   the principles of internal-combustion engines
   
6. () Rule of personal conduct  ( precept , principle )
   rule of personal conduct