What is the meaning of principle?

noun

• A basic generalization that is accepted as true and that can be used as a basis for reasoning or conduct.
  • usage: "their principles of composition characterized all their works"
  • synonyms: rule
• A rule or standard especially of good behavior.
  • usage: "a man of principle"; "he will not violate his principles"
• A basic truth or law or assumption.
  • usage: "the principles of democracy"
• A rule or law concerning a natural phenomenon or the function of a complex system.
  • usage: "the principle of the conservation of mass"; "the principle of jet propulsion"; "the right-hand rule for inductive fields"
  • synonyms: rule
• Rule of personal conduct.
  • synonyms: precept
• Law) an explanation of the fundamental reasons (especially an explanation of the working of some device in terms of laws of nature. ()
  • usage: "the rationale for capital punishment"; "the principles of internal-combustion engines"
  • synonyms: rationale