ˈpɹiːsɛpt ˈpɹɪnsɪpəl (law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature) the rationale for capital punishment the principles of internal-combustion engines a basic truth or law or assumption the principles of democracy a rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system the principle of the conservation of mass the principle of jet propulsion the right-hand rule for inductive fields a basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct their principles of composition characterized all their works a rule or standard especially of good behavior a man of principle he will not violate his principles rule of personal conduct