Sanctimony

Noun

Definition: Pretended or hypocritical righteousness; hypocritical devoutness or virtuousness.

Synonyms: Self-righteousness, Hypocrisy, False piety

Antonyms: Sincerity, Authenticity

Examples:

His sanctimony was evident in his relentless criticism of others' behavior.
She preached about honesty and integrity with such sanctimony, but her actions told a different story.

Mnemonics:

"Sanctimony" sounds similar to "sanctimonious," which means displaying a hypocritical show of moral virtue.

Origin:

Middle English, from Latin "sanctimonium" (sanctity, holiness)

Historical Usage:

The term has been used to describe hypocritical righteousness since Middle English.

Idiom:

"Speak with sanctimony"

Explanation:

To speak in a self-righteous or hypocritical manner, often with an air of false piety.

Misconception:

Confusing "sanctimony" with "sanctity" or "holiness."

Explanation:

While "sanctimony" is related to the concept of sanctity, it specifically refers to hypocritical righteousness rather than genuine holiness.