tenet
UK: ˈtɛnɪt | US: ˈtɛnɪt
n. a principle or belief, especially one of the main principles of a religion or philosophy
The word "tenet" originates directly from Latin, where it means "he/she holds." It is the third-person singular present tense of tenēre ("to hold, grasp, or maintain"). In English, it evolved to signify a principle or doctrine that one "holds" as true. The connection between physical holding (Latin) and abstract belief (English) reflects the metaphorical extension of the root meaning.
Freedom of speech is a central tenet of democracy.
The tenet of non-violence is key to their philosophy.
Scientists questioned the fundamental tenet of the theory.
This tenet has guided their community for centuries.
The teacher emphasized the tenet of respect in the classroom.