The Sadducees were a Jewish sect that existed during the Second Temple period. They were known for their emphasis on strict adherence to the written Torah and their rejection of oral law and tradition. Some synonyms for Sadducees include legalists, conservatives, and traditionalists. The Sadducees were also known for their closeness to the ruling class and their acceptance of Hellenistic culture, so some might also refer to them as elitists or Hellenizers. Despite their differences in beliefs and practices, the Sadducees were an important part of Jewish society during their time and their influence can still be felt in modern interpretations of Jewish law and tradition.