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Puritanical - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Puritanical describes someone who is extremely strict in moral or religious matters, often disapproving of pleasure or indulgence. It implies a rigid adherence to austere principles.

puritanical

/ˌpjʊrɪˈtænɪkəl/ /ˌpjʊərɪˈtænɪkəl/

Definition:

Excessively strict in moral or religious matters, often disapprovingly so.

Synonyms:

austere, rigid, ascetic, strict, moralistic

Part of Speech:

adjective

Antonyms:

lenient, permissive, indulgent

Common Collocations:

puritanical beliefs, puritanical attitudes, puritanical lifestyle

Derivatives:

puritanically, puritanism

Usage Tips:

Use "puritanical" to describe someone overly strict in morals, often implying disapproval of their rigidity.

Common Phrases:

puritanical zeal, puritanical code of conduct

Etymology:

Derived from "Puritan," referring to 16th-17th century English Protestants who sought to purify the Church of England.

Examples:

  • 1. Her puritanical views made her disapprove of modern fashion.
  • 2. The town’s puritanical laws banned dancing and music on Sundays.
  • 3. His puritanical upbringing left him uncomfortable with casual dating.
  • 4. She criticized the film for its puritanical portrayal of romance.

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