as in puritan
a person who is greatly concerned with seemly behavior and morality especially regarding sexual matters
wowsers would be well-advised to avoid that steamy new show on TV
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Recent Examples of wowser
Now, a wowser is commonly someone who looks to crack down on enjoyment.
—
Michelle Elias, New York Times, 27 Feb. 2020
Michelle Elias, New York Times, 27 Feb. 2020
Recent Examples of Synonyms for wowser
puritan
Noun
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However, rather than blithely dismiss the consequences of legalization with eye-rolling contempt for the puritans, supporters should confront the adverse societal effects of cannabis — the pervasive urban stench, the traffic deaths and the pernicious effects on youth.—
Cory Franklin,
Chicago Tribune,
12 Jan. 2026
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Austere antiquity is in constant conflict with more sensual, modern impulses — a tension that feels productive applied to a story of the Shakers, puritans whom time has proven too pure for this world.—
Guy Lodge,
Variety,
1 Sep. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Wowser.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/wowser. Accessed 31 Jan. 2026.
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