Source : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)

Hypocrisy \Hy*poc"ri*sy\ (h[i^]*p[o^]k"r[i^]*s[y^]), n.; pl.
   {Hypocrisies} (-s[i^]z). [OE. hypocrisie, ypocrisie, OF.
   hypocrisie, ypocrisie, F. hypocrisie, L. hypocrisis, fr. Gr.
   "ypo`krisis the playing a part on the stage, simulation,
   outward show, fr. "ypokr`nesqai to answer on the stage, to
   play a part; "ypo` under + kri`nein to decide; in the middle
   voice, to dispute, contend. See {Hypo-}, and {Critic}.]
   The act or practice of a hypocrite; a feigning to be what one
   is not, or to feel what one does not feel; a dissimulation,
   or a concealment of one's real character, disposition, or
   motives; especially, the assuming of false appearance of
   virtue or religion; a simulation of goodness.

         Hypocrisy is the necessary burden of villainy.
                                                  --Rambler.

         Hypocrisy is the homage vice pays to virtue. --La
                                                  Rochefoucauld
                                                  (Trans. ).