What does sanctimony mean?
Sanctimony is the outward performance of religious devotion, moral purity, or virtue, especially when it is exaggerated, self-righteous, or motivated more by appearance than by genuine conviction. It describes both a manner of behavior and a broader attitude of moral superiority. The word is typically used critically: calling someone sanctimonious suggests that their religious or moral display is a substitute for tolerance, compassion, or honest engagement. Although the expression can refer to sincere-looking religious practice, it almost always carries a negative judgment. In everyday argument, it may describe someone who imposes strict standards on others while lacking humility. Its strong evaluative force makes it especially useful when discussing hypocrisy, moralizing, and the gap between public virtue and private conduct.
nounThe practice or display of making a show of religious devotion, moral goodness, or purity, especially in an exaggerated or self-righteous manner. It often implies that the behavior is motivated by a desire to appear virtuous rather than by genuine concern.
- Exaggerated or self-righteous display of religious devotion or moral goodness.
"Her lectures on public morality were dismissed as sanctimony rather than constructive criticism."
"The community was wary of sanctimony when its leaders imposed strict moral rules without showing compassion."
"He regarded her public displays of virtue as sanctimony rather than authentic religious conviction."
Rare in general use, but possible when referring to distinct instances or displays of sanctimonious behavior.
"The novel satirizes the sanctimonies of provincial society."
Sanctimony is the art of looking holy while making everyone else feel judged.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does sanctimony come from?
Sanctimony comes from Latin sanctimonia, a noun meaning holiness or purity, associated with the adjective sanctus, “holy.” English borrowed the word in the 17th century, initially with the more neutral sense of holiness or religious devotion. Over time, its meaning developed toward the modern critical sense of conspicuous or affected piety.
Related word forms
How sanctimony is actually used
The word is generally critical and usually implies hypocrisy, excessive restraint, or a desire to appear morally superior. It is most commonly used in discussion of religion, public morality, and self-appointed moral guardians.
Easily confused with sanctimony
Sanctimony refers to outward displays of moral or religious devotion, while sanctity refers to holiness, purity, or sacredness in a neutral or approving sense.
Sanctimony is the behavior itself; sanctimonious describes a person or manner characterized by that behavior.