PsychologySeptember 7, 2026

moralisation

MOR-uh-li-ZAY-shun

Definition

The process of interpreting or viewing actions, behaviors, or personal choices through a moral lens, specifically categorizing them as matters of right and wrong.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'moralis' (custom/manner), the suffix '-ization' was added in the 19th century to describe the act of imbuing something with moral character.

In the news

The article warns that the moralisation of self-care—viewing health choices as moral duties—might make people more judgmental toward those struggling with mental health or addiction.

Is it morally wrong to not take care of yourself?

Read the full article ↗

Psyche

Related words

Learn words like this every day

Meet new words every morning.

Newspoken pulls carefully chosen words from the day’s news — with clear definitions, context, and light review that makes them stick. Get it on your phone.