Puritan

A puritan is a person who advocates for strict moral or religious principles, often emphasizing personal piety, austerity, and an adherence to a rigid ethical code. Historically, the term is associated with a group of Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to 'purify' the Church of England from Catholic practices. The modern usage may also denote someone with a priggish attitude who disapproves of indulgence or pleasure-seeking behaviors.

Puritan meaning with examples

• In the 17th century, many puritans left England seeking religious freedom, eventually establishing colonies in America where they could practice their beliefs without persecution. Their values greatly influenced early American culture, prioritizing community morality and a strict work ethic.
• At the family gathering, a puritan attitude emerged, as the matriarch expressed strong disapproval of the lighthearted drinking and dancing, insisting on a more subdued and moral celebration that reflected their traditional values.
• Despite his puritan beliefs, he found himself occasionally swept away by modern trends and social norms, wrestling with the conflict between his upbringing and the hedonistic lifestyles often glorified in contemporary society.
• The author's novel explores the life of a puritan who grapples with his convictions while navigating the temptations of love and desire, ultimately questioning whether a rigid moral code can coexist with true human experience.