sanctimonious (C2)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˌsæŋktɪˈmoʊniəs/

Definition

Making a show of being morally superior or holier than other people, often in a hypocritical or insincere way.

Examples

• The politician gave a sanctimonious speech about family values just days before his own scandal broke.

• I grew tired of her sanctimonious attitude whenever she criticized my lifestyle choices.

• His sanctimonious tone made it impossible for us to have an honest conversation about our mistakes.

Synonyms of sanctimonious

Words with a similar meaning to sanctimonious:

• pious
• self-righteous
• hypocritical
• holier-than-thou
• pharisaical

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