Definition

Noun: A person who is (or is considered to be) without human failings; an individual regarded as being of impossibly perfect, virtuous, or saintly character, often in an unrealistic or hypocritical way. The term is typically used critically or ironically to suggest the perfection is false or exaggerated.

Usage

This term is used to describe someone who presents themselves or is perceived as morally flawless, implying this image is artificial, unattainable, or insincere. It often carries a negative connotation of disapproval or skepticism.

Examples

• Don't expect him to be a plaster saint; he has flaws like everyone else.
• The politician tried to portray himself as a plaster saint, but the scandal revealed his true nature.
• She's no plaster saint—she gets angry and makes mistakes, which makes her more relatable.

Advanced Usage

• "to be no plaster saint": A common phrase used to emphasize that someone is not perfect and has normal human weaknesses.
  • I admit I'm no plaster saint, but I try to be honest.

Variants and Related Words

• Saint (n): A person acknowledged as holy or virtuous, typically after death. (The core word, without the critical "plaster" modifier).
• Paragon (n): A person or thing regarded as a perfect example of a particular quality. (Can be similar but not always negative).
• Goody-two-shoes (n, informal): A person who is annoyingly or smugly virtuous.

Synonyms

• Paragon of virtue
• Holy Joe (informal)
• Prig (implies self-righteousness)

Antonyms

• Sinner
• Reprobate
• Flawed individual

Related Idioms

• Holier-than-thou: Behaving as if one is morally superior to others. (This describes an attitude, while "plaster saint" describes a perceived person).
  • He stopped attending their holier-than-thou lectures.

Noun

1. a person (considered to be) without human failings
   • he's no plaster saint