English Explanatory Dictionary

virtue signalling

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. The practice of expressing a particular opinion or performing a particular action in an attempt to make oneself look virtuous: commonly defensively in response to, or anticipation of, criticism; or aggressively, in assuming a moral posture in attacking an opponent.
verb
  1. present participle and gerund of virtue signal

Pronunciation

/ˈvɜɹtʃu sɪɡnəlɪŋ/ [ˈvɝtʃ-] virtue signaling US.ogg

Word forms

virtue signalling virtue signaling virtue-signalling virtue-signaling

Etymology

Initially used in academic works about religion to refer to ostentatious public displays of religiosity. Popularised by James Bartholomew in an April 2015 article in the British conservative magazine The Spectator.

Antonyms

vice signalling

Related words

humblebrag moral high ground Pharisee political correctness sanctimony self-righteousness

Derived words

virtue signal
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