sanctimonious sangk-tuh-MOH-nee-uhs adjective WS #36

making a show of being morally superior to other people; hypocritically pious or devout; self-righteously displaying moral superiority; pretending to be more virtuous than others

1. The sanctimonious politician preached about family values while secretly engaging in corrupt business dealings.
2. The sanctimonious lecture about environmental responsibility came from someone who drove a gas-guzzling luxury car.
3. Her sanctimonious attitude toward her coworkers made them feel judged and uncomfortable around her.
4. His sanctimonious tone when discussing charity work revealed his desire for praise rather than genuine compassion.
5. The sanctimonious critic condemned violence in movies while ignoring the brutality in his own written reviews.