English · Word Candidate

ethical

/ˈɛθɪkəl/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: ethicals

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Of or relating to the study of ethics.

Adjective

The philosopher Kant is particularly known for his ethical writings.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

Of or relating to the accepted principles of right and wrong, especially those of some organization or profession.

Adjective

All employees must familiarize themselves with our ethical guidelines.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

An ethical drug, one only dispensed on the prescription of a physician.

Noun

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

What does “ethical” mean?

Of or relating to the study of ethics.

Is “ethical” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.