hypocritical

[ hip-uh-krit-i-kuhl ]

adjective

1. of the nature of hypocrisy, or pretense of having virtues, beliefs, principles, etc., that one does not actually possess:

   The parent who has a “do what I say and not what I do” attitude can appear hypocritical to a child.

2. possessing the characteristics of hypocrisy:

   Isn't a politician hypocritical for talking about human dignity while voting against reasonable social programs?

Other Words From

• hypo·criti·cal·ly adverb
• unhyp·o·criti·cal adjective
• unhyp·o·criti·cal·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of hypocritical¹

First recorded in 1515–25; equivalent to Greek hypokritik(ós) (from hypokritḗs “a stage actor” + -ikós -ic ( def ) ) + -al ¹( def ); hypocrite ( def )

Example Sentences

Matt McNicholas, one of several attorneys representing the affected officers, said that after the city’s previous arguments, it was hypocritical for it to suddenly say his clients should be identified.

From Los Angeles Times

There are several moments in which Stewart comes off as hypocritical and lacking self-awareness.

From Los Angeles Times

A number of constituents have emailed the charity calling for her removal, with one telling the BBC she felt it was "hypocritical" she stayed, as she represents "one of the poorest parts of country".

From BBC

Critics described Harris’ decision to defend the law as hypocritical given her stance in the Espinoza case, but she said it was her duty as attorney general.

From Los Angeles Times

Anti-monarchists have accused the prince of being "hypocritical" for his housing project, when he has several homes and has more than £20m from the Duchy of Cornwall as a private income.

From BBC

Related Words

• deceptive
• duplicitous
• false
• insincere
• sanctimonious
• self-righteous
• unnatural