hypocrite
UK: /ˈhɪpəkrɪt/ | US: /ˈhɪpəkrɪt/
n. a person who pretends to have virtues, morals, or beliefs that they do not actually possess; someone whose actions contradict their stated principles.
hypocrite = hypo<under> + crite<judge>
- hypo (from Greek hypo-, meaning "under" or "less than")
- crite (from Greek kritēs, meaning "judge")
Etymology Origin:
The word "hypocrite" originates from ancient Greek theater, where hypokritēs referred to an actor who played a role on stage—literally "one who judges from underneath" (i.e., speaks from behind a mask). Over time, it evolved to describe someone who pretends to be something they are not, reflecting the duality of theatrical performance. The modern sense of moral deception emerged in Late Latin and Old French before entering English.
He called her a hypocrite for preaching honesty while lying to his face.
Politicians are often accused of being hypocrites when their actions don’t match their promises.
Don’t be a hypocrite—practice what you preach.
She exposed him as a hypocrite who donated to charity only for publicity.
The teacher warned the students against hypocrisy, urging them to live with integrity.