hypocrisy
UK: hɪˈpɒkrəsi | US: hɪˈpɑːkrəsi
n. the practice of claiming to have moral standards or beliefs to which one's own behavior does not conform; pretense.
hypocrisy = hypo<under> + cris<judge> + y<noun suffix>
- hypo (Greek hypo-, meaning "under" or "less than")
- cris (Greek krinein, meaning "to judge" or "to decide")
- y (noun-forming suffix indicating a state or quality)
Etymology Origin:
The word "hypocrisy" originates from Greek hypokrisis, meaning "acting on a stage" or "pretense." It combines hypo- ("under") and krinein ("to judge"), reflecting the idea of "judging from beneath" or "playing a role." In ancient Greek theater, actors wore masks to portray characters, symbolizing the concealment of true identity. Over time, the term evolved to denote the act of feigning virtue or morality while behaving contrary to those claims.
His hypocrisy was evident when he preached honesty but lied to his colleagues.
Political hypocrisy often undermines public trust in leaders.
She accused him of hypocrisy for criticizing laziness while avoiding work himself.
The company’s environmental claims were exposed as hypocrisy after the pollution scandal.
Religious hypocrisy can alienate followers who expect genuine devotion.