decency

American  

[dee-suhn-see] / ˈdi sən si /

noun

PLURAL

decencies

1. the state or quality of being decent.

2. conformity to the recognized standard of propriety, good taste, modesty, etc.

   Synonyms:

   gentility , respectability , decorum

3. decencies,

   1. the recognized standards of decent or proper behavior; proprieties.

      The least you can expect from them is some respect for the decencies.

   2. the requirements or amenities for decent or comfortable living.

      to be able to afford the decencies.

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decency British  

/ ˈdiːsənsɪ /

noun

1. conformity to the prevailing standards of propriety, morality, modesty, etc

2. the quality of being decent

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Etymology

Origin of decency

1560–70; < Latin decentia comeliness, decency, equivalent to decent- (stem of decēns ) fitting ( decent ) + -ia noun suffix

Example Sentences

That is an act of decency, and your “direct responses” are actually pretty tactful.

From Washington Post

Thankfully, Mr. Washington had the decency to realize he should not be in charge of the FAA and withdrew his name from consideration so that he could return to his old job.

From Washington Times

This is a flimsy excuse for intolerance and a lack of simple decency toward a fellow human being.

From Washington Post

Unfortunately, for a system of etiquette to function, it requires a sense of decency, or at least the desire for a peaceful community.

From Washington Post

Our politicians should have more faith in the basic decency of women guided by their own moral compasses.

From Washington Post

Related Words

• civility
• correctness
• courtesy
• decorum
• dignity
• good manners
• honesty
• modesty
• propriety
• righteousness
• virtue