noun
definition
A fundamental assumption or guiding belief.
example
We need some sort of principles to reason from.
definition
A rule used to choose among solutions to a problem.
example
The principle of least privilege holds that a process should only receive the permissions it needs.
definition
(sometimes pluralized) Moral rule or aspect.
example
I don't doubt your principles.
definition
A rule or law of nature, or the basic idea on how the laws of nature are applied.
example
Bernoulli's Principle
definition
A fundamental essence, particularly one producing a given quality.
example
Many believe that life is the result of some vital principle.
definition
A beginning.
definition
A source, or origin; that from which anything proceeds; fundamental substance or energy; primordial substance; ultimate element, or cause.
definition
An original faculty or endowment.