morally
Meaning
in a way that relates to the principles of right and wrong behavior
in a way that is considered right or acceptable according to the standards of behavior or beliefs of a particular group
Structure
Usage
he argued that the policy was morally indefensible.
she felt morally obligated to tell the truth.
the character is morally ambiguous, neither entirely good nor evil.
Etymology
the word 'morally' is built upon the adjective 'moral', which entered english in the late 14th century from latin moralis, meaning "pertaining to manners or character." this latin term was itself a creation by cicero to translate the greek ēthikos (ethical), deriving from mos (plural mores), meaning "custom, habit, or manner." the suffix '-ly', of old english and germanic origin, is a prolific adverb-forming element. therefore, 'morally' literally means "in a manner pertaining to customs or character," evolving to specifically describe actions or judgments made according to principles of right and wrong conduct.
Analysis
moral: from latin moralis (pertaining to manners or character). ly: from old english -līce (forming adverbs from adjectives), of germanic origin.