Vocabulary word Priggish - Practice with online flashcards, spelling bees and vocabulary quizzes

Personality and Character Traits

Learning activities:

Rudeness and Unrefined

Learning activities:

Suffix -ish

Learning activities:

Vilification and Vitriol

Learning activities:

Dictionary Definition of priggish

Excessively concerned with following rules, etiquette, or social norms.
"His priggish demeanor made him unpopular among his more laid-back colleagues."

Detailed Meaning of Priggish

A priggish person can be seen as overly self-righteous, pompous, or snobbish, and may be intolerant of those who do not conform to their idea of proper behavior. A priggish person is often characterized as being rigid or inflexible in their attitudes and opinions, and may be perceived as overly judgmental or critical. The term "priggish" can also be used to describe behavior that is perceived as overly formal, stuffy, or old-fashioned. In general, the term "priggish" has a negative connotation, and is often used to criticize people who are seen as being too uptight or inflexible in their behavior.

Example Sentences for Priggish

1. His priggish demeanor often alienates others.
2. She adheres to priggish standards of behavior.
3. The priggish guest complained about everything.
4. Their priggishness makes them hard to be around.
5. He's known for his priggish attention to detail.
6. Her priggish attitude stifles creativity.

Origin and Etymology of Priggish

The adjective 'priggish' has its etymological origins in the word 'prig,' which first appeared in English in the 16th century. The exact origin of 'prig' is uncertain, but it was used to describe someone who was excessively concerned with adhering to rules, etiquette, or social norms, often in a self-righteous or sanctimonious manner. 'Priggish' is derived from 'prig' and carries the same connotations of being overly prim and proper, with an excessive emphasis on following established conventions to the point of appearing judgmental or pedantic. This term highlights an attitude of superiority in one's adherence to rules and decorum, which can be seen as off-putting or self-righteous by others.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the adjective priggish:

self-righteous

unconcerned

relaxed

easygoing

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

More Usage Examples of Priggish

1. The priggish professor imposes rigid guidelines.
2. His priggishness extends to even the smallest matters.
3. The priggish coworker can be insufferable.
4. The event's priggish ambiance was off-putting.
5. She couldn't stand his priggish insistence on formality.
6. His priggish comments often lead to disputes.
7. The priggish supervisor micromanages everything.
8. The priggish dress code left no room for comfort.
9. They criticized the priggishness of the rules.
10. Her priggishness creates a tense atmosphere.
11. The priggishness of the situation stifled creativity.
12. His priggishness was evident in his strict emails.
13. The priggish nature of the event discouraged attendance.
14. The priggishness of their culture was oppressive.
15. The priggish teacher insisted on perfect grammar, even during casual conversations.
16. Her priggish attitude made it difficult for her to accept others' differing opinions.
17. The priggish neighbor refused to join the community barbecue, calling it a frivolous event.
18. The book's protagonist was a priggish aristocrat who looked down on everyone around him.
19. Her priggish insistence on table manners made family dinners feel tense and awkward.
20. With a priggish air, he corrected her pronunciation of the foreign word.
21. The priggish employee always flaunted her professional achievements in front of her peers.
22. His priggish refusal to watch popular television shows left him out of many conversations.
23. The priggish politician claimed to have never broken a single law or rule in his life.
24. She was put off by the priggish tone of the book, which seemed to lecture the reader on morality.
25. The priggish guest turned up his nose at the homemade dessert, insisting he only ate gourmet treats.