Prigs

Prigs (plural of prig) are individuals characterized by their excessive moral correctness, self-righteousness, and a tendency to express disapproval of others' behavior or opinions. They often display an exaggerated concern with propriety and are perceived as being excessively formal or pedantic. prigs are quick to judge and often display a superior attitude, focusing on minute details and adhering strictly to rules, sometimes at the expense of empathy or understanding. This behavior often arises from a desire to appear superior or to conform rigidly to a set of social or ethical standards, regardless of context.

Prigs meaning with examples

• The history professor was notorious for being a prig, constantly correcting students' grammar and criticizing their essay arguments with a condescending tone. He upheld rigid standards, seemingly more interested in finding fault than fostering intellectual growth, making him unpopular amongst his students who thought he was a self-righteous bore.
• At the dinner party, the prigs among the guests were quick to criticize the host's choice of wine and the informal atmosphere. They constantly commented on etiquette breaches, much to the annoyance of the more relaxed attendees, whose lively conversations were constantly being interrupted.
• The online forum was overrun with prigs who attacked others' opinions, citing obscure rules of conduct and claiming moral superiority. Discussions devolved into petty arguments over minor details, with anyone who deviated from the 'correct' line of thinking facing immediate denunciation.
• Despite their efforts to be models of behavior, the new recruits were quickly labelled prigs by some of the veteran workers. Their adherence to every procedure was met with eye-rolls and sighs, showing that their earnestness was not appreciated.
• The local community group was dominated by a cabal of prigs who scrutinized every detail of neighborhood projects, objecting to even minor changes and demanding adherence to the rulebook, making it hard to get anything done, frustrating their neighbors.