self-righteously

The word is a modern English compound formed by adding the adverbial suffix '-ly' to the adjective 'self-righteous'. The core adjective 'righteous' itself has a Germanic origin, evolving from Old English 'rihtwis', a compound of 'riht' (right, correct) and 'wis' (wise, manner), thus literally meaning "in a right manner". The prefix 'self-' intensifies the focus on the individual's own perceived virtue. The term 'self-righteous' emerged in the early 17th century, capturing the concept of a person who is confident in their own moral correctness, often to a fault. The adverb form 'self-righteously' logically follows, describing the manner in which such an attitude is expressed or displayed.

Structure: self + righteous + ly self (Old English, 'self, same'): A prefix/root denoting the person or thing in question. righteous (Old English, 'rihtwis', from 'riht' (right) + 'wis' (wise, manner)): An adjective meaning morally right or justifiable. ly (Old English, 'lice', adverbial suffix): A suffix forming adverbs from adjectives.