canting

[ kan-ting ]

adjective

1. affectedly or hypocritically pious or righteous:

   a canting social reformer.

Word History and Origins

Origin of canting¹

First recorded in 1560–70; cant ¹ + -ing ²

Example Sentences

She complained that a canting waterman who was one of the brotherhood had held forth against her at a meeting.

From Project Gutenberg

“A short half hour will bring down that canting sergeant and the guard upon us,” cried the leader.

From Project Gutenberg

Reaching the rail by the life-boat davits, he saw at once that the ship was canting far over.

From Project Gutenberg

When the Celestial Balances are canting, a man ought to exert himself.

From Project Gutenberg

I knew you for a stout seaman, you rogue, before you took to this long-shore canting.

From Project Gutenberg