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Definition of decency

decency

/ˈdiː.sən.si/
de · cen · cy
Adverb:decently
•
Plural:decencies
•
Adjective:decent
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decency Lexical Profile

decency Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Behavior that conforms to accepted standards of morality, respectability, and fairness.

Example

"She at least had the common decency to apologize for arriving an hour late to the meeting."

2

The requirements or conventions needed for a reasonable, respectable, or comfortable standard of living (usually used in the plural).

Example

"The charity works tirelessly to ensure that every family in the region has access to the basic decencies of life."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for decency

• Nearby Words

deceivingly
decelerate
deceleration
decency
decent
decenter
decently

Word Origin & Etymology

Borrowed in the late 16th century from Latin decentia ('comeliness' or 'propriety'), derived from the verb decere ('to be fitting or suitable'), which is also the root of 'decorum' and 'decorate'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Decency. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/decency
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