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Definition of pharisaism - 2 dictionary results

Phar⋅i⋅sa⋅ism

  [far-uh-sey-iz-uhm]
Use pharisaism in a Sentence
–noun
1. the principles and practices of the Pharisees.
2. (lowercase) rigid observance of external forms of religion or conduct without genuine piety; hypocrisy.
Also, Phar⋅i⋅see⋅ism  [far-uh-see-iz-uhm] .

Origin:
1595–1605; < NL Pharisaismus. See Pharisaic, -ism

Related forms:
Phar⋅i⋅sa⋅ist, adjective
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2009.
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phar·i·sa·ism   (fār'ĭ-sā-ĭz'əm)   
n.  

  1. Pharisaism also Phariseeism The doctrines and practices of the Pharisees.

  2. Hypocritical observance of the letter of religious or moral law without regard for the spirit; sanctimoniousness.

The American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fourth Edition
Copyright © 2009 by Houghton Mifflin Company.
Published by Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.
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