rectitude; uprightness; integrity
Formal, somewhat literary term for moral uprightness and correctness of character. Often used in descriptions of a person's conduct or principles.
He is known for his upright character.
He performs his duties with integrity.
Standard kanji form; no common kana-only spelling.
Composed of 方 (direction, method) and 正 (correct, righteous). The combination suggests a person whose conduct is always directed toward what is right. The exact historical derivation is uncertain, but the meaning is transparent from the kanji.