moralism

noun

mor·​al·​ism ˈmȯr-ə-ˌli-zəm How to pronounce moralism (audio)
ˈmär-
1
a
: the habit or practice of moralizing
b
: a conventional moral attitude or saying
2
: an often exaggerated emphasis on morality (as in politics)

Examples of moralism in a Sentence

The candidate's campaign was doomed by an incessant moralism that came across as condescension.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Opponents of the movement argued that concern for animals was merely sentimental moralism that impeded progress. Barbara Spindel, The Christian Science Monitor, 11 June 2024 The Return of the Global South Realism, not moralism, drives a new critique of western power. Graeme Smith, Foreign Affairs, 10 June 2024 That roughing in of a few sharper edges parallels the addition of Victorian moralism to the animal world. Philip Kennicott, Washington Post, 8 Apr. 2024 And, along with its hearty sentiment, Cukor delivers a strong repudiation of provincial American moralism. Richard Brody, The New Yorker, 19 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for moralism 

Word History

First Known Use

1674, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of moralism was in 1674

Dictionary Entries Near moralism

Cite this Entry

“Moralism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/moralism. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on moralism

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!