Definitions

1. noun

A member of the Pharisees, a Jewish sect in the 1st century AD; a hypocrite or self-righteous person who emphasizes external observance of rules and conventions over true morality or compassion.

“He was criticized for being a pharisean, more concerned with appearances than actual charity work.”

2. adjective

Relating to the Pharisees or their principles; characterized by hypocrisy or self-righteousness.

“The pharisean attitudes of the wealthy elite were a major factor in the social unrest.”