Need another word for Sanctimoniously? Use these synonyms of Sanctimoniously from our thesaurus to say it differently.
Synonyms & Similar Words
self-righteously
hypocritically
piously
moralistically
virtuously
smugly
complacently
holier-than-thou
superiorly
condescendingly
patronizingly
pretentiously
affectedly
insincerely
deceitfully
falsely
sanctily
Pharisaically
cantingly
tartly
priggishly
primly
stuffily
rigidly
inflexibly
dogmatically
intolerantly
bigotedly
narrow-mindedly
zealously
fanatically
excessively
overzealously
Meaning of Sanctimoniously
The primary meaning of the word "Sanctimoniously" is to act or speak in a way that shows a false or exaggerated sense of moral superiority or righteousness.
Definitions
- According to Oxford Languages, sanctimoniously means having or showing a hypocritically virtuous or moralistic attitude, or speaking or acting in a way that is intended to show a strong moral sense but is actually false or exaggerated.
- * It can also imply a sense of self-righteousness or smugness, where an individual presents themselves as being more moral or virtuous than others.
Etymology of Sanctimoniously
The word "Sanctimoniously" originates from the Latin words "sanctimonia," meaning holiness or sanctity, and the suffix "-ly," which forms an adverb.
Historically, the term has been used to describe individuals who feign moral superiority or righteousness, often to manipulate or judge others.
Example Uses
- The politician spoke sanctimoniously about the need for moral reform, but his own history of corruption was well-documented.
- * She sanctimoniously lectured her friends about the importance of recycling, despite driving a gas-guzzling SUV.
- * The company's sanctimonious advertising campaign emphasized its commitment to social responsibility, but critics argued that it was just a publicity stunt.