Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com

deontology

American  
[dee-on-tol-uh-jee] / ˌdi ɒnˈtɒl ə dʒi /

noun

  1. ethics, especially that branch dealing with duty, moral obligation, and right action.


deontology British  
/ ˌdiːɒnˈtɒlədʒɪ /

noun

  1. the branch of ethics dealing with duty, moral obligation, and moral commitment

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

Etymology

Origin of deontology

First recorded in 1820–30; from Greek deont- (stem of déon “binding,” neuter present participle of deîn “to bind, tie, fetter”) + -o- ( def. ) + -logy

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The word deontology derives from the Greek words deon, meaning duty, and logos, meaning the study or science of, so that deontology literally means “the study or science of duty.”

From Textbooks • Jun. 15, 2022

In contrast to classic utilitarianism and deontology, pluralism recognizes a plurality of intrinsic values and moral rules.

From Textbooks • Jun. 15, 2022

May, who teaches at Clemson, starred in a series of short videos explaining concepts like existentialism, utilitarianism, and deontology to the show’s viewers.

From Slate • Feb. 3, 2020

In contrast to consequentialism or duty-based deontology, virtue ethics emphasizes virtues or moral excellence.

From Slate • Apr. 15, 2019

Accordingly, general deontology, in that part which brings not external, but internal, freedom under laws is the doctrine of virtue.

From The Metaphysical Elements of Ethics by Abbott, Thomas Kingsmill

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "deontology" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com