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decorum

American  
[dih-kawr-uhm, -kohr-] / dɪˈkɔr əm, -ˈkoʊr- /

noun

  1. dignified propriety of behavior, speech, dress, etc.

    Synonyms:
    dignity, politeness
  2. the quality or state of being decorous, or exhibiting such dignified propriety; orderliness; regularity.

  3. Usually decorums an observance or requirement of polite society.


decorum British  
/ dɪˈkɔːrəm /

noun

  1. propriety, esp in behaviour or conduct

  2. a requirement of correct behaviour in polite society

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

See etiquette.

Etymology

Origin of decorum

First recorded in 1560–70; from Latin decōrum, noun use of neuter of decōrus decorous

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Perhaps like never before the authorities need to consider fan behaviour at major events to ensure the Royal and Ancient game continues to be played with the decorum it deserves.

From BBC

Japan's emperor is generally treated with hushed reverence, but one man stripped away all decorum -- quite literally -- during a New Year's event on Friday, local media reported.

From Barron's

He and others who scored above average offered their own pointers for navigating workplace decorum.

From The Wall Street Journal

The commission found that Judge Thornhill had "failed to maintain order and decorum in the courtroom", and recommended he be suspended without pay for six months, then serve for another 18 months before retiring.

From BBC

She calls him Tim, not Dad — partially out of decorum in a world where she is lobbying him and his colleagues on a regular basis.

From Los Angeles Times