principle

principle definition - medical

prin·ci·ple (prĭnˈsə-pəl)

noun
  1. A basic truth, law, or assumption.
  2. A rule or law concerning the functioning of natural phenomena or mechanical processes.
  3. One of the elements composing a chemical compound, especially one that gives some special quality or effect.
  4. The essential ingredient in a drug.

The American Heritage® Medical Dictionary Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

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