Hypocrisies

1 definition found

From The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48 [gcide]:

  Hypocrisy \Hy*poc"ri*sy\ (h[i^]*p[o^]k"r[i^]*s[y^]), n.; pl.
     {Hypocrisies} (-s[i^]z). [OE. hypocrisie, ypocrisie, OF.
     hypocrisie, ypocrisie, F. hypocrisie, L. hypocrisis, fr. Gr.
     "ypo`krisis the playing a part on the stage, simulation,
     outward show, fr. "ypokr`nesqai to answer on the stage, to
     play a part; "ypo` under + kri`nein to decide; in the middle


     voice, to dispute, contend. See {Hypo-}, and {Critic}.]
     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.
     [1913 Webster]
  
           Hypocrisy is the necessary burden of villainy.
                                                    --Rambler.
     [1913 Webster]
  
           Hypocrisy is the homage vice pays to virtue. --La
                                                    Rochefoucauld
                                                    (Trans. ).
     [1913 Webster]