scruple: Meaning and Definition of

scru•ple

1. a moral or ethical consideration or standard that acts as a restraining force or inhibits certain actions.
2. a very small portion or amount.
3. a unit of weight equal to 20 grains (1.295 grams) or of a dram, apothecaries' weight.
4. an ancient Roman unit of weight equivalent to of an ounce or of an as or pound. Cf. (def. 2).

1. to have scruples.

1. to have scruples about; hesitate at.