probity (2009-10-01)

Part of Speech: noun

Pronunciation: ['pro-bê-ti]

Definition: Honesty, integrity, moral perfection.

Usage: Probity is characterized by an absoluteness beyond that of ordinary morality and integrity. Use this term when you wish to express such absoluteness, e.g. "Mother Teresa's moral probity led her into a life of complete self-sacrifice" or "A company of anything less than absolute financial probity risks the loss of stockholder confidence."

Etymology: Latin probitas, from probus "good, upright" derived from Indo-European *per- "in front of" which appears in English "fore", as in "forefront".