Puritanical

Puritanical describes a person or thing that is excessively strict in matters of morals and religion. It often implies a judgmental attitude and a rigid adherence to traditional or conservative values, particularly concerning pleasure and self-expression. This mindset typically involves a strong emphasis on discipline, sobriety, and a condemnation of behaviors perceived as sinful or indulgent. It can manifest in social rules, personal conduct, or even artistic expression, often stifling innovation and tolerance in the name of piety and moral rectitude. The term can be used pejoratively, implying an outdated or overly restrictive view of the world.

Puritanical meaning with examples

• The new headmaster implemented a Puritanical dress code, banning colorful clothing and forcing students to wear plain uniforms. Any deviation was met with severe punishment. The strict rules created resentment amongst the students who felt their individuality was being suppressed. This caused a decline in morale within the school as students rebelled and lost their desire to attend.
• The town council's Puritanical regulations severely restricted nightlife, closing pubs and entertainment venues early. Critics argued this stifled the local economy and deprived residents of social opportunities. Despite being implemented to reduce 'immoral' behavior, it drove people away, and the town soon became a place people wanted to avoid due to the extreme restrictions.
• Her Puritanical upbringing instilled a strong sense of guilt and self-denial that permeated every aspect of her life. She struggled to find joy in simple pleasures, believing that any enjoyment was a form of sin. This strict adherence to her religious beliefs created depression that eventually caused her to separate from the religious practice.
• The film was criticized for its Puritanical portrayal of female characters, who were depicted as either virtuous or utterly corrupt with no room for complexity. Critics argue it perpetuated harmful stereotypes and limited their agency within the story. The director failed to achieve the vision because of these constrictions.
• The Puritanical beliefs of the community led to the censorship of several books and artworks deemed to be morally objectionable. The intolerance for any expression outside of a narrow scope hindered the development of local art and literature. The community became stale and uninspired due to the restrictions it chose to impose.