puritanical

adjective

pu·​ri·​tan·​i·​cal ˌpyu̇r-ə-ˈta-ni-kəl How to pronounce puritanical (audio)
1
: of, relating to, or characterized by a rigid morality
2
puritanically adverb

Examples of puritanical in a Sentence

some of the state laws concerning sexual behavior are vestiges of a more puritanical time and are rarely, if ever, enforced
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.
If, instead, the election is close, existing trends will likely bring out the worst in America—our puritanical righteousness and tribalism. Chris Jackson, Fortune, 4 Nov. 2024 In voiceover, Ai fondly recalls her own uncles and aunts sneaking out to clubs at night, partying all weekend, clashing with their elders and the more puritanical past generations stunned by the appropriation of sexier dress, style, and musical verve. Ryan Lattanzio, IndieWire, 25 Oct. 2024 In this version, religious zealots—some imported, and some homegrown—are trying to impose a puritanical form of religious law on society. Daniel Corstange, Foreign Affairs, 14 Sep. 2016 Before each performance, the scene is set by a narrator who speaks in a prim, puritanical accent reminiscent of a bygone era. Sonaiya Kelley, Los Angeles Times, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for puritanical 

Word History

First Known Use

1598, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Time Traveler
The first known use of puritanical was in 1598

Dictionary Entries Near puritanical

Cite this Entry

“Puritanical.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/puritanical. Accessed 28 Nov. 2024.

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