1. people who teach or promote moral principles and values
Usage: plural of moralist
2. people who make judgments about right and wrong behavior, often in a self-righteous way
Usage: can have negative connotations

Examples

• The ancient Greek moralists emphasized the importance of virtue and character.
• Religious moralists often speak out against what they see as declining social values.
• Some critics dismissed the protesters as self-appointed moralists.
• The book features essays by various moralists throughout history.
• Modern moralists debate the ethics of artificial intelligence.
• She grew tired of the moralists who constantly judged her lifestyle choices.
• The university invited several prominent moralists to speak at the ethics conference.