Priggishness

Priggishness is a character trait marked by an exaggerated sense of propriety, self-righteousness, and often a condescending attitude toward those perceived as lacking similar moral or social standards. A person exhibiting priggishness is typically overly concerned with correctness and adhering rigidly to conventional rules, sometimes to the point of being pedantic or annoying. They frequently express disapproval of others' actions or beliefs, presenting a facade of moral superiority. priggishness often involves a pronounced focus on trivial matters, while potentially overlooking larger ethical considerations. It is a behavioral pattern suggesting an insecurity disguised behind a veneer of unwavering virtue.

Priggishness meaning with examples

• His priggishness was on full display at the dinner party. He tut-tutted at every minor infraction of etiquette, from improper silverware placement to slightly off-topic conversations. His constant pronouncements on the 'correct' way to behave made the other guests uncomfortable, and everyone longed for the evening to end and get away from his lecturing and moral grandstanding.
• The history professor’s priggishness was legendary. He graded essays with meticulous, almost nitpicking, attention to detail, penalizing students for even the smallest deviation from his preferred academic style. He seemed less interested in the quality of their ideas than in the exact fulfillment of his stylistic demands. This priggishness often discouraged students from taking intellectual risks or exploring alternative perspectives.
• The neighborhood watch group was overrun by priggishness. They scrutinized every aspect of their neighbors’ lives, reporting perceived violations of property maintenance and noise ordinances. Their unwavering focus on minor details and petty rules created a climate of fear and resentment, poisoning the once-friendly atmosphere of their community.
• Despite his outward display of piety, the politician’s priggishness was transparent. His public pronouncements on morality and family values stood in stark contrast to the rumors of his personal life, a disconnect which exposed the shallowness of his convictions and the blatant hypocrisy of his actions, eroding his integrity and support.
• The novel’s protagonist exhibited priggishness in his relentless pursuit of societal approval. He meticulously curated his image and behavior to conform to prevailing norms, masking his true feelings and desires. His life was a performance, a carefully crafted facade, reflecting a deep-seated insecurity and a constant fear of judgment from the outside world.