puritan

/'pjuəritən/

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Explanation of the Word "Puritan"

Definition:
A "puritan" is a noun that can refer to two main ideas:

Usage Instructions

• Use "puritan" to describe someone who is very strict about moral standards.
• It can also be used in a historical context when talking about the Puritans of England.

Examples

• Historical: "The Puritans played a significant role in the early settlement of America, seeking religious freedom."
• General: "His puritan views on lifestyle choices made it difficult for him to enjoy social gatherings."

Advanced Usage

• You might encounter "puritanical," which is an adjective derived from "puritan." It describes behavior that is very strict or rigid about moral standards.
  • Example: "Her puritanical attitude towards entertainment made her unpopular among her peers."

Word Variants

• Noun: Puritan
• Adjective: Puritanical
• Noun (related): Puritanism (the belief system of Puritans)

Different Meanings

• While "puritan" typically refers to strictness in moral or religious contexts, it can also be used more broadly to describe someone who disapproves of pleasures or indulgences.

Synonyms

• Moralist
• Ascetic
• Prude
• Enforcer of propriety

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

• There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "puritan," but you might hear phrases like "puritan work ethic," which describes a strong sense of responsibility and hard work, often associated with Puritan beliefs.

Summary

In summary, "puritan" can describe a historical group of people who sought to reform the Church of England, or it can refer to someone who is very strict about moral behavior today.

Academic

Noun

1. a person excessively concerned about propriety and decorum
2. someone who adheres to strict religious principles; someone opposed to sensual pleasures
3. a member of a group of English Protestants who in the 16th and 17th centuries thought that the Protestant Reformation under Elizabeth was incomplete and advocated the simplification and regulation of forms of worship

Synonyms

• prude
• Puritan