What does the word 'sanctimony' refer to?

The term 'sanctimony' refers to feigned piety or hypocritical devoutness. It describes a situation where someone presents themselves as morally superior or devout, while their actual beliefs or behaviors may not align with that perceived piety. This concept often implies a disconnect between one's outward actions or appearance and their true intentions or character, thus highlighting a level of hypocrisy regarding morality or religious devotion.

Understanding this term is significant in discussions about ethics, character evaluation, or social interactions where individuals may exploit moral posturing for personal gain or to manipulate perceptions. The other choices—genuine piety, a peaceful state of mind, and a method of scholarly study—do not capture the essence of 'sanctimony,' as they describe authentic or unrelated states rather than the insincerity implied by the term.