morale

noun

mo·​rale mə-ˈral 

1

: moral principles, teachings, or conduct

2

a

: the mental and emotional condition (as of enthusiasm, confidence, or loyalty) of an individual or group with regard to the function or tasks at hand

The team's morale is high.

b

: a sense of common purpose with respect to a group : esprit de corps

The ship's morale improved after two days of shore leave.

3

: the level of individual psychological well-being based on such factors as a sense of purpose and confidence in the future

The failure of his play did not affect his morale.

Examples of morale in a Sentence

The team is playing well and their morale is high.

The President's speech boosted the morale of the troops.

Recent Examples on the Web

How will tanking morale affect government operations in the coming months? —Arkansas Online, 7 June 2025

By focusing on the good, celebrating achievements and highlighting the positive impact of their work, healthcare leaders can boost morale and drive long-term success. —Sacha Obaid, Forbes.com, 6 June 2025

There’s something about being back on the 17th floor where the wins feel bigger and the bombs don’t feel quite as devastating, which was good for morale. —Peter White, Deadline, 4 June 2025

A day like Sunday – a third quarter like Sunday’s, to be precise – is great for morale. —Jim Alexander, Oc Register, 25 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

in sense 1, from French, from feminine of moral, adjective; in other senses, modification of French moral morale, from moral, adjective

First Known Use

1752, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for morale

• canal
• chorale
• corral
• ghazal
• locale
• royale
• bal
• dal
• gal
• mal
• pal
• sal

Kids Definition

morale

noun

mo·​rale mə-ˈral 

: the mental and emotional condition (as of enthusiasm, spirit, or loyalty) of an individual or a group with regard to a task or goal to be accomplished