Extramoral

/ˌɛkstrəˈmɔːrəl/ adjective

Definition

Existing or operating outside the realm of morality; neither moral nor immoral, but simply amoral or independent of ethical considerations.

Etymology

From Latin 'extra' (outside) + 'moralis' (moral, from 'mores' customs). Philosophers developed this term to distinguish truly amoral acts from immoral ones.

Kelly Says

A rock falling downhill is extramoral—it has no choice and no moral dimension. But here's what's wild: humans often *want* to believe certain acts are extramoral when they're actually deeply immoral, which is why philosophers keep having to argue about this distinction.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.