puritan

[ˈpjʊərɪtn]

puritan Definition

  • 1a member of a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who wanted to simplify the Church of England by removing many of its ceremonies and decorations
  • 2a person who follows strict moral and religious principles, especially one who disapproves of pleasure and entertainment

Using puritan: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "puritan" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The Puritans believed in predestination.

  • Example

    He was a Puritan minister.

  • Example

    She has a puritanical attitude towards sex.

  • Example

    The Puritan work ethic emphasizes hard work and self-discipline.

puritan Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for puritan

Idioms Using puritan

  • a tendency to be strict or severe in one's moral or religious beliefs

    Example

    Despite her liberal views, she had a Puritan streak that made her disapprove of certain behaviors.

  • the belief that hard work and diligence are moral virtues that lead to success

    Example

    The Puritan work ethic is deeply ingrained in American culture.

  • Puritan roots

    the origins or historical background of Puritanism

    Example

    Many Americans can trace their Puritan roots back to the early settlers of New England.

Phrases with puritan

  • the belief that hard work and self-discipline are virtues that lead to success

    Example

    The Puritan ethic is still strong in American culture today.

  • a style of writing characterized by simple language, direct statements, and references to ordinary, everyday objects

    Example

    The Puritan plain style is exemplified in the works of writers like William Bradford and Anne Bradstreet.

  • punishment that is harsh and severe, often involving public humiliation or physical pain

    Example

    The Puritans were known for their use of Puritan punishment, such as the stocks and the pillory.

Origins of puritan

from Late Latin 'puritas', meaning 'purity'

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Summary: puritan in Brief

The term 'puritan' [ˈpjʊərɪtn] refers to two distinct but related concepts. First, it describes a member of a group of English Protestants in the 16th and 17th centuries who sought to simplify the Church of England. Second, it denotes a person who follows strict moral and religious principles, often disapproving of pleasure and entertainment. Examples include 'The Puritan work ethic emphasizes hard work and self-discipline,' and 'She has a puritanical attitude towards sex.' Phrases like 'Puritan ethic' and 'Puritan punishment' further illustrate this concept.

How do native speakers use this expression?