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self-righteous

[self-rahy-chuhs, self-] / ˌsɛlfˈraɪ tʃəs, ˈsɛlf- /


Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For TV producers, it's long been tempting to invite two self-righteous zealots into a studio to bellow at each other.

From BBC • Mar. 7, 2026

I could feel their disgust and their self-righteous cancellation in every one of the innumerable wounds I already had.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 17, 2025

“I know James isn’t going to take the impression in a more self-righteous or shrill direction,” he says—not because “SNL” is playing things safe, but because the bit simply wouldn’t be as funny.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 3, 2025

Smug, as we use it as a synonym for conceited or self-righteous, emerged from its earlier sense of “neat and trim,” which is exactly the ideal of a pert bump.

From Slate • Jul. 21, 2025

“I liked the Nigerpolitan Club post. A little self-righteous, though.”

From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie




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