unprincipled

[ uhn-prin-suh-puhld ]

adjective

1. lacking or not based on moral scruples or principles:

   an unprincipled person; unprincipled behavior.

   Synonyms: dishonest, tricky

2. not instructed in the principles of something (usually followed by in ).

unprincipled

/ ʌnˈprɪnsɪpəld /

adjective

1. lacking moral principles; unscrupulous
2. archaic.
   foll by in not versed in the principles of (a subject)

Derived Forms

• unˈprincipledness, noun

Other Words From

• un·princi·pled·ness noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of unprincipled¹

First recorded in 1625–35; un- ¹ + principled

Synonym Study

See unscrupulous.

Example Sentences

In any event, the Court has previously drawn unprincipled lines that are difficult to square with legal texts and existing doctrines.

From Vox

“Roe and Casey are unprincipled decisions that have damaged the democratic process, poisoned our national discourse, plagued the law — and, in doing so, harmed this Court,” the brief states.

From Washington Post

Refusing to do so on the basis of ethnic solidarity is an unprincipled copout.

From The Daily Beast

In politics, impractical positions count as inherently … unprincipled.

From The Daily Beast

How did BP become an unprincipled bottom-line operator ready to cut any corners for profit?

From The Daily Beast

I also thought he was completely unprincipled—he could change his views like leaves change their colors.

From The Daily Beast

Anything more high-minded than an unprincipled grab for power voters might consider a sham.

From The Daily Beast

O Bessie, there are so many unprincipled men in the world who love to win and betray the confidence of young innocent girls.

From Project Gutenberg

That an unprincipled man should be followed by a majority of the House of Commons is no doubt an evil.

From Project Gutenberg

Others muttered that the event which all good men lamented was to be ascribed to unprincipled ambition.

From Project Gutenberg

Orford was covetous and unprincipled; but he had great professional skill and knowledge, great industry, and a strong will.

From Project Gutenberg

Unprincipled men, alike in Church and State, made use of their position and power to gain their own ends and enslave the people.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• amoral
• deceitful
• dishonest
• immoral
• unconscionable
• unethical
• unprofessional
• unscrupulous