constancy; fidelity; integrity
Refers to unwavering adherence to one's principles, moral steadfastness, or loyalty. Somewhat formal and literary; not an everyday conversational word.
彼は生涯を通じて操守を貫いた。
He remained constant in his principles throughout his life.
政治家には高い操守が求められる。
Politicians are expected to have high integrity.
Composed of 操 (みさお, 'constancy' or 'chastity') and 守 (まもる, 'to protect' or 'to keep'), suggesting the idea of guarding one's principles. The exact historical derivation is uncertain.