How Do You Spell SELFRIGHTEOUSNESS?

1. Self-righteousness is a noun that refers to an exaggerated or excessive belief in one's own moral or ethical superiority, often accompanied by a judgmental and condescending attitude towards others. It is a term used to describe a person who firmly believes that their actions, beliefs, or opinions are morally right and virtuous while considering others as morally inferior or flawed.

   The self-righteous individual tends to have a strong sense of moral righteousness and may often display a holier-than-thou attitude. They often impose their own moral standards and values onto others, judging them based on their perceived lack of adherence to these standards. This can lead to an air of moral superiority, arrogance, and an unwillingness to consider alternative viewpoints.

   One common characteristic of self-righteousness is a lack of humility and an unwillingness to acknowledge one's own faults or shortcomings. Instead, the self-righteous person may constantly seek validation and affirmation of their own virtue, often at the expense of others. They may engage in moral grandstanding, using their perceived righteousness as a means of gaining social status or esteem.

   Self-righteousness can create division and hostility, as it often fosters an environment of intolerance, rigidity, and dogmatism. It can hinder open-mindedness, hinder constructive discourse, and perpetuate negative judgment and alienation. Recognizing and addressing self-righteousness requires self-awareness, empathy, and the willingness to engage in genuine introspection and respect for diverse perspectives.

Common Misspellings for SELFRIGHTEOUSNESS

The word "self-righteousness" is derived from the combination of two words: "self" and "righteousness".

The term "self" dates back to Old English, where it was spelled "self", meaning "one's own person, individuality, character". It can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "selbaz" and the Indo-European root "*sel". "Self" ultimately refers to an individual's identity or being.

The word "righteousness" originates from the Middle English term "rightwisnesse", which was formed by combining the words "right" and "wisdom". "Right" comes from Old English "riht", meaning "just, good, fair, fitting". When used in a moral sense, it refers to being morally upright or virtuous.