Definition

In a way that shows you feel morally superior to others, often in a hypocritical manner.

Example

She spoke sanctimoniously about the importance of honesty, even though she had lied herself.

Conversation

I can't believe how he always talks sanctimoniously about his choices.

Right? It’s like he thinks he’s better than everyone else.

Exactly! It just makes me roll my eyes sometimes.

Same here, it’s exhausting to listen to.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Sanctimoniously → It is formed from "sanctus" (meaning holy) and "-mony" (from Latin "monia", meaning condition or quality) combined with the adverbial suffix "-ously" (meaning in a manner). The word describes behaving in a manner that is hypocritically holy or pious.

Memory Tip

Think of 'holy' ('sanctus') and the 'condition' of being pious ('-mony') to remember that 'sanctimoniously' means acting in a hypocritically holy way.

Visually Confused Words