n. & v.
--n.
1. (in sing. or pl.) a regard to the morality or propriety of an action. b a feeling of doubt or hesitation caused by this.
2 Brit. hist. an apothecaries' weight of 20 grains.
3 archaic a very small quantity.
--v.intr.
1. (foll. by to + infin.; usu. with neg.) be reluctant because of scruples (did not scruple to stop their allowance).
2 feel or be influenced by scruples.
Etymology: F scrupule or L scrupulus f. scrupus rough pebble, anxiety