self-righteous

adjective

self-righ·​teous ˌself-ˈrī-chəs 

: convinced of one's own righteousness especially in contrast with the actions and beliefs of others : narrow-mindedly moralistic

self-righteously adverb

self-righteousness noun

Examples of self-righteous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Along with his signature rapid-fire, garrulous dialogue, Sorkin’s tendency for self-righteous indignation is very much in evidence. — David Rooney, HollywoodReporter, 7 Oct. 2026

At least, until Verity’s final letter casts doubt upon Lowen’s self-righteous ending. — Emily Tannenbaum, Glamour, 6 Oct. 2026

Camille’s self-righteous anger, so understandable yet so misguided, has burned through the screen every week. — Noel Murray, Vulture, 28 Aug. 2026

The financier Carl Icahn, Ackman’s longtime nemesis and business rival, famously denounced him as a self-righteous crybaby. — Jeff John Roberts, Fortune, 20 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1680, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for self-righteous

• righteous
• unrighteous

Kids Definition

self-righteous

adjective

self-righ·​teous

ˈsel-ˈfrī-chəs

: strongly convinced of the rightness of one's actions or beliefs

self-righteously adverb

self-righteousness noun