məˈral, mȯˈ-, mōˈ- noun
( -s )
Etymology: in sense 1, from French, from feminine of moral, adjective, in other senses, modification (influenced by English morale, sense 1) of French moral morale, moral nature, from moral, adjective — more at moral
1. : moral principles, teachings, or conduct : morality
conversations which American law and morale consider privileged — A.F.Westin
a morale of fair-mindedness, intellectual integrity — John Dewey
2.
a. : a confident, resolute, willing, often self-sacrificing and courageous attitude of an individual to the function or tasks demanded or expected of him by a group of which he is a part that is based upon such factors as pride in the achievements and aims of the group, faith in its leadership and ultimate success, a sense of fruitful personal participation in its work, and a devotion and loyalty to the other members of the group
high morale and personal pride are at least barely possible in large firms — Peter Wiles
whatever happened, morale meant to them resistance, and capitulation was a proof that they had lost their nerve — Ruth Benedict
b. : a sense of common purpose or a degree of dedication to a common task regarded as characteristic of or dominant in a particular group or organization : esprit de corps
the morale of the ship improved after two days of shore leave
the morale of the faculty was high
the morale of the reform group suffered a severe blow when their candidate was defeated
3. : a state of individual psychological well-being and buoyancy based upon such factors as physical or mental health, a sense of purpose and usefulness, and confidence in the future
a long period of unemployment had weakened his morale
the failure of his play did not affect his morale