scruple
UK[ˈskruːp(ə)l]US[ˈskruːp(ə)l]
n
a feeling of doubt or hesitation about the rightness or morality of an action.
n
a very small unit of weight, used especially by apothecaries.
v
to hesitate or be reluctant to do something because of moral doubts.
Etymology
the word 'scruple' entered english in the late middle english period from the latin 'scrupulus', a diminutive of 'scrupus', meaning a sharp stone or pebble. the latin term evolved metaphorically to signify a source of anxiety or a nagging doubt, much like a small, irritating stone in one's shoe. this sense of a minor but persistent worry was then applied specifically to matters of conscience. the apothecaries' weight sense derives from the same latin source, representing a very small unit, metaphorically a tiny pebble of weight.
Analysis
the entire word 'scruple' functions as a simplex unit in modern english. it is a loanword from latin.
Examples
she had no scruples about accepting the money from the controversial source.
the pharmacist measured out a scruple of the rare powder.
he would not scruple to bend the rules if it meant winning the contract.