Definition of morale

The word "morale" originated in the military during the 19th century when it was used to describe the level of spirits or motivation among soldiers. The term was borrowed from the French word "moral," which itself derived from the Latin word "moralis" meaning "conforming to the proper standard." In military contexts, morale refers to the psychological well-being and motivation of soldiers, sailors, and airmen, primarily in the face of hardship, danger, or uncertainty. It is a multidimensional construct, encompassing factors such as confidence, cohesion, loyalty, and esprit de corps. The term "morale" gained broader usage in the American vernacular during the two world wars, as the military's increasing emphasis on leadership, teamwork, and psychological training inspired its transfer into civilian settings, where it is now commonly used to refer to the emotional and mental states of individuals, organizations, and social groups more generally. One notion that may explain the continuing popularity of "morale" is that it captures a sense of collective mental resilience, an intangible reserve of inner strength, grit, and determination that allows individuals and groups to overcome adversity and achieve shared goals. It also emphasizes the importance of socially shared values, beliefs, and commitments, highlighting the role that these intangible but significant factors play in shaping human behavior and collective action.