sanctimony
/ˈsæŋk.təˌməʊ.ni/ · san·ti·mo·ny
noun
- A hypocritical display of excessive piety; an affectation of moral superiority for public approval. His sanctimony was obvious when he lectured the crowd about charity while ignoring the homeless on the street.
Synonyms
hypocrisyself‑righteousnessphariseeismpiousnesspretentiousnessinsincerityaffectationholier‑than‑thou attitude
Antonyms
Did you know? The adjective 'sanctimonious' was popularized by Shakespeare, who used it in 'Henry IV' to mock false piety, cementing the word's sarcastic tone in English literature.