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Definition of properness

properness

/ˈprɑː.pɚ.nəs/
prop · er · ness
Adverb:properly
•
Adjective:proper
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properness Lexical Profile

properness Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

The quality or state of being suitable, fitting, or correct for a particular purpose or situation.

Example

"The committee questioned the properness of using public funds for the private reception."

2

Adherence to conventional standards of polite behavior, manners, and moral conduct; propriety.

Example

"She was raised in a strict household that valued quiet properness above all else."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for properness
Antonyms
View all antonyms for properness

Word Nuance & Usage

While grammatically valid, 'properness' is much less common in formal writing than 'propriety' (for social decorum) or 'appropriateness' (for suitability to a situation).

• Rhymes for properness

• Nearby Words

propensity
proper
properly
properness
propers
propertied
property

Cite this Entry

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