impropriety
Americannoun
-
the quality or condition of being improper; incorrectness.
-
inappropriateness; unsuitableness.
-
unseemliness; indecorousness.
-
an erroneous or unsuitable expression, act, etc.
-
an improper use of a word or phrase.
noun
-
lack of propriety; indecency; indecorum
-
an improper act or use
-
the state of being improper
Etymology
Origin of impropriety
From the Late Latin word improprietās, dating back to 1605–15. See im- 2, propriety
Explanation
When the boss's husband shows up at a formal dinner party and proceeds to stuff his pockets full of hors d'oeuvres, no one dares to mention his impropriety above a whisper, especially to the boss. Impropriety is a violation of a rule of behavior, manners, or etiquette. So while it is fitting and proper to wear a bikini top and a sarong to the beach, to do so at church would be considered an impropriety. Some find a bit of impropriety charming. Somerset Maugham went so far as to say, “Impropriety is the soul of wit.”
Vocabulary lists containing impropriety
"The Declaration of Sentiments" (1848)
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
Simply Scandalous!
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Copper Sun
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
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.
Whether in interviews or the context of her films, Fennell doesn’t shy from the fact that she enjoys themes that flirt with impropriety or visuals that push the limits.
From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026
However, Jackson's later years would be punctuated by scandal, including revelations of marital infidelity and financial impropriety involving his son and political heir, Jesse Jackson Jr, who served as a congressman from Illinois.
From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026
Druckenmiller has been careful about his contact with Bessent since he became Treasury secretary, according to someone close to the investor, to avoid the appearance of impropriety.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 2, 2026
There’s a little bit of explanation under this, but the headline is: Judges should avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety in all activities.
From Slate • Dec. 11, 2025
On the other hand, if the intentions of the merchant were not honorable, you’d better believe that she’d be heading in their direction to inform them of their malfeasance and impropriety.
From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
