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Prig - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A prig is a self-righteous person who behaves as if they are morally superior to others, often being overly strict or critical about minor rules and conventions.

prig

/prɪɡ/ /prɪɡ/

Definition:

A self-righteously moralistic person who behaves as if superior to others.

Synonyms:

prude, puritan, pedant, stickler

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

libertine, free spirit

Common Collocations:

smug prig, moral prig, insufferable prig

Derivatives:

priggish, priggishly, priggishness

Usage Tips:

Use "prig" to describe someone overly rigid in morals while looking down on others.

Common Phrases:

holier-than-thou prig, self-righteous prig

Etymology:

Originated in the 16th century, possibly from "prick" or related to "prink" (to dress fussily).

Examples:

  • 1. She acted like a prig when she scolded us for laughing too loudly.
  • 2. Nobody likes a prig who lectures others on minor mistakes.
  • 3. His priggish attitude made him unpopular at parties.
  • 4. Don’t be such a prig—let people enjoy themselves!

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