morale
UK: məˈrɑːl | US: məˈræl
n. The confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a group or individual, especially in challenging situations.
n. Emotional or mental condition regarding willingness to perform tasks (e.g., team morale).
Derived from French morale (mid-18th century), originally referring to "moral principles" but later specialized to mean "mental state of a group." The root moral traces back to Latin moralis ("customary, proper"), from mos ("custom, habit"). The shift from ethics to collective psychology reflects military usage, where discipline and spirit were tied to moral conduct. The silent -e marks its French origin.
The team's morale improved after their recent victory.
Poor management led to a decline in employee morale.
Encouraging feedback can boost student morale during exams.
The general gave a speech to lift the soldiers' morale.
Flexible work policies often enhance workplace morale.