verb

moralize

MOR-uh-lyze/ˈmɔːrəlaɪz/

To discuss or interpret something as a lesson about right and wrong.

The speaker moralizes about littering even after the listener cleans up.

A minor lapse has already been put right, but the speaker keeps delivering a self-righteous lecture: a compact two-panel sequence shows litter being disposed of, followed by continued finger-raised preaching to the visibly weary person who corrected it.

Etymology

morLatincustom, manner

+alLatinpertaining to

+izeLatinform a verb

Built on the root for customs and manners, moralize originally meant to draw out a moral or spiritual lesson. Making moral reflections connects that use with the selected sense of commenting preachily on right and wrong.

In context

themightyapefish62:18

you've got the cheek to come on here and moralize because you failed to get me tickets and make a dream come true

KARL VS STEVE - ALL THE INSULTS

More examples

The teacher moralizes about honesty while discussing the story.
Rather than moralize about his mistake, we help him fix it.
The essay moralizes about the dangers of greed.

Forms

moralize · moralizes · moralized · moralizing

moralizer noun — Someone who comments on right and wrong.

Similar words

preach: Often urges moral or religious behavior more forcefully.
lecture: Stresses lengthy instruction or criticism, not necessarily moral lessons.