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Webster 1913 Edition


Probity

Prob′i-ty

,
Noun.
[F.
probité
, fr. L.
probitas
, fr.
probus
good, proper, honest. Cf.
Prove
.]
Tried virtue or integrity; approved moral excellence; honesty; rectitude; uprightness.
“Probity of mind.”
Pope.
Syn. –
Probity
,
Integrity
.
Probity denotes unimpeachable honesty and virtue, shown especially by the performance of those obligations, called imperfect, which the laws of the state do not reach, and can not enforce. Integrity denotes a whole-hearted honesty, and especially that which excludes all injustice that might favor one’s self. It has a peculiar reference to uprightness in mutual dealings, transfer of property, and the execution of trusts for others.

Webster 1828 Edition


Probity

PROB'ITY

,
Noun.
[L. probitas, from probo, to prove.]
Primarily, tried virtue or integrity, or approved actions; but in general, strict honesty; sincerity; veracity; integrity in principle, or strict conformity of actions to the laws of justice. Probity of mind or principle is best evinced by probity of conduct in social dealings, particularly in adhering to strict integrity in the observance and performance of rights called imperfect, which public laws to not reach and cannot enforce.