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Definition of moralize

moralize

/ˈmɔːr.ə.laɪz/
(UK: moralise)
mor · al · ize
Adverb:moralizingly
•
Adjective:moralizing
•
Past Simple:moralized
•
Past Participle:moralized
•
Present Participle:moralizing
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moralize Lexical Profile

moralize Game Scores & Validity

• verb

1

To comment on issues of right and wrong, typically in a unfounded, self-righteous, or pompous manner.

Example

"The columnist tended to moralize about the decline of modern manners rather than analyze the underlying social changes."

2

To reform the moral character of a person or group, or to imbue something with a moral quality or lesson.

Example

"Early nineteenth-century reformers sought to moralize public entertainment through educational theater."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
View all antonyms for moralize

• Rhymes for moralize

• Nearby Words

moralist
moralistic
morality
moralize
moralizer
moralizingly
morally

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 14th century from Old French moraliser, from Medieval Latin moralizare ('to explain in a moral sense'), derived from Latin moralis ('proper behavior of a person in society').

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Moralize. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/moralize
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