hpocrisy Meaning, Definition & Usage

H*poc"ri*sy noun

Etymology

OE. hypocrisie, ypocrisie, OF. hypocrisie, ypocrisie, F. hypocrisie, L. hypocrisis, fr. Gr. the playing a part on the stage, simulation, outward show, fr. to answer on the stage, to play a part; under + to decide; in the middle voice, to dispute, contend. See Hypo-, and Critic.

Wordforms

plural Hypocrisies

Definitions

1. The act or practice of a hypocrite; a feigning to be what one is not, or to feel what one does not feel; a dissimulation, or a concealment of one's real character, disposition, or motives; especially, the assuming of false appearance of virtue or religion; a simulation of goodness.

   Hypocrisy is the necessary burden of villainy. Rambler.

   Hypocrisy is the homage vice pays to virtue. La Rochefoucauld (Trans. ).