1. hesitated to do something because of moral doubts or ethical concerns
Usage: past tense of ‘scruple’; often used with ‘not’ in negative constructions

Examples

• She never scrupled to tell the truth, even when it was uncomfortable.
• He scrupled at taking credit for work that wasn’t entirely his own.
• The journalist didn’t scruple to ask difficult questions during the interview.
• They scrupled about using the company’s resources for personal projects.
• The lawyer scrupled over whether to take the controversial case.
• She scrupled at the thought of breaking her promise to her friend.