MORALISM Synonyms: 17 Similar and Opposite Words

moralism

noun

ˈmȯr-ə-ˌli-zəm

Definition of moralism

as in puritanism

a tendency to care a great deal about seemly behavior and morals especially in sexual matters the moralism that the candidate displays on the campaign trail is seen by some as hypocritical

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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.

Recent Examples of moralism If the senator’s moralism has been unfettered by his stroke, with a shift toward right-brain moralistic processing, that does not diminish his sincere intent or its effect. — Michael P.h. Stanley, STAT, 10 Sep. 2026 Relative moralism is a slippery slope because there is no fundamental belief by all in something, an absolute truth. — Joe Kinsey Outkick, FOXNews.com, 1 June 2026 This slows growth, destroys social trust, increases judgment and moralism, and saps societal happiness. — Annie Lowrey, The Atlantic, 24 May 2026 Much of Ian MacKaye’s progressive moralism comes from his Episcopal upbringing. — Chris R. Morgan, The Washington Examiner, 22 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for moralism

Recent Examples of Synonyms for moralism

puritanism

Noun

As the weeks unfold, the trio notice a rising tide of puritanism and misogyny.

— Peter White, Deadline, 5 Aug. 2026
These two realities—of emboldened puritanism and abundant openness—clash in confounding ways.

— Sophia Nguyen, The Atlantic, 18 July 2026

Definition of puritanism

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moral

moralism

moralist

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“Moralism.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/moralism. Accessed 28 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of moralism

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