CultureJuly 9, 2026
puritanism
ˈpjʊərɪtəˌnɪzəm
Definition
The practice of enforcing or expressing excessive moral rigidity, conservative social standards, or judgmental oversight of others' behavior.
Etymology
The word derives from the 16th-century 'Puritans,' a group of English Protestants who sought to 'purify' the Church of England. Over time, it evolved to describe any rigid adherence to strict moral or religious codes.
In the news
In the article, the term is used to describe the rigid social pressures and moral expectations Charli XCX satirizes through her music and aesthetic choices. She uses her art to rebel against the boxes of 'traditional values' that society attempts to impose on her.
‘Music, Fashion, Film’ and the death of ‘Brat’: Charli XCX’s new creative era
Read the full article ↗EL PAÍS English