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.
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.