Puritanically

Part of speech: adverb

Definitions

1. In a way that embodies strict moral rigor and a strong aversion to indulgence, often upholding severe ethical standards
2. Characterized by a stringent approach to morality that avoids indulgent behavior and emphasizes traditional values
3. In a manner that reflects extreme adherence to moral principles while rejecting any form of indulgence, prioritizing disciplined ethical behavior

Etymology: "Puritanically" is an adverb built in two stages. The base word "puritanical" was formed from "Puritan", the name for 16th- and 17th-century English Protestants who wanted to strip the Church of England of what they saw as Catholic ceremony and who lived by a strict moral code. "Puritanical" added the adjectival suffix "-al", a Latin-derived ending that turns nouns into adjectives, so it means "like a Puritan" or "in the manner of the Puritans." The adverb then adds the English suffix "-ly", which descends from Old English "-līċe", the same ending that gives "quickly" and "boldly" their manner sense. Adding "-ly" to "puritanical" yields "puritanically," meaning in a stringent, strictly moral way that avoids indulgence and holds to traditional values.

Synonyms: morally, strictly, ascetically, abstemiously, austere

Antonyms: immorally, laxly, indulgently, liberally, extravagantly