Sanctimony Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
sanctimony
[หsรฆลkหtษชmษหni ]
Definition
moral superiority
Sanctimony refers to the act of being hypocritically pious or morally superior to others. It is often used to describe someone who displays a pretentious display of moral superiority while lacking the true moral integrity they claim to possess. This term can highlight the contrast between oneโs lofty self-image and their actual behavior. Similarly, it points out the inherent hypocrisy that exists when someone emphasizes their own virtue while unfairly judging others.
Synonyms
hypocrisy, pretense, self-righteousness.
Examples of usage
- Her sanctimony was evident when she criticized others for their choices.
- He preached about charity, but his sanctimony masked his own greed.
- The politician's sanctimony became apparent when he criticized his opponent for something he had done himself.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religion
- In many religious texts, hypocrisy is warned against, with figures in scripture often criticized for their 'sanctimonious' behavior.
- Religious leaders throughout history have occasionally faced accusations of sanctimony when their actions do not align with their teachings.
- Various spiritual movements have attempted to combat sanctimony by highlighting authenticity and humility in faith practices.
Psychology
- Sanctimony can be linked to psychological defenses, where individuals overcompensate for their own perceived moral failings by judging others.
- Cognitive dissonance theory suggests that those who feel sanctimonious may struggle internally when their actions donโt match their self-image.
- People often rationalize their sanctimonious behavior to maintain a positive self-esteem despite conflicting actions.
Literature
- Many classic literary works explore themes of sanctimony, showcasing characters who represent moral superiority but are flawed.
- Authors like Charles Dickens often highlight sanctimonious behavior in their critiques of societal norms and characters' hypocrisy.
- In modern literature, authors continue to examine the tension between appearance and reality, often using satire to depict sanctimonious individuals.
Origin of 'sanctimony'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'sanctimony' combines 'sanctus', Latin for 'holy', and 'simony', which suggests a false or deceptive nature.
- It first appeared in the late 17th century, reflecting the growing concerns about hypocrisy in religious contexts.
- The use of this term emphasizes a contrast between true virtue and the pretense of morality.
The word 'sanctimony' is derived from the Latin 'sanctimonia', which means 'holiness' or 'sacredness'. The root 'sanctus' translates to 'holy'. The term entered English usage in the mid-19th century, capturing the sense of a display of holiness or virtue that is not genuine. Over time, 'sanctimony' has evolved to convey the idea of hypocrisy associated with an exaggerated display of moral superiority or righteousness. Its use has often been critical, aiming to call out those who preach virtuous behavior while engaging in actions that contradict their asserted values. This concept of duality in morality has resonated through various social and political contexts, highlighting the tension between public persona and private action.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #40,406, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.