prig
Prig (noun) means a person who is smugly self-righteous about proper behaviour, to an irritating degree. Example: “Nobody wanted him at the party — he was too much of a prig about table manners.”
How to use prig
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishSomeone who acts self-righteously proper and looks down on others for not being as prim and correct.
Don't confuse with prim (an adjective describing overly formal behaviour) — prig is the noun for the person who behaves that way.
Word forms
prigged past tense, prigs plural, prigs singular
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Nobody wanted him at the party — he was too much of a _____ about table manners.
Etymology
First recorded in 16th-century Britain; the exact origin is unknown, though it may be linked to older slang senses meaning "thief" or "tinker."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for prig
See all rhymes for prig →Frequently asked questions
What does “prig” mean?
The word “prig” means a person who is smugly self-righteous about proper behaviour, to an irritating degree. In plain terms, someone who acts self-righteously proper and looks down on others for not being as prim and correct.
How do you pronounce “prig”?
“Prig” is pronounced prihg (/pɹɪɡ/ in IPA).
How do you use “prig” in a sentence?
Here is “prig” used in a sentence: “Nobody wanted him at the party — he was too much of a prig about table manners.”
What part of speech is “prig”?
“Prig” is a noun.
Where does the word “prig” come from?
The word “prig” dates back to around 1500. First recorded in 16th-century Britain; the exact origin is unknown, though it may be linked to older slang senses meaning "thief" or "tinker.".