decency
noun
de·cen·cy
ˈdē-sᵊn-sē 
plural decencies
1
2
: standard of propriety
—usually used in plural
3
decencies plural
: conditions or services considered essential for a proper standard of living
4
: literary decorum
5
Examples of decency in a Sentence
Decency, not fear of punishment, caused them to do the right thing.
Sending aid to the victims was simply a matter of common decency.
If you're going to be late, please have the decency to call and let me know.
Have you no sense of decency?
He had been taught to observe the ordinary decencies.
Recent Examples on the Web
The reasons for the Labour Party leader’s deepening plight are moral, because decency and shame still matter in British politics.
—
Idrees Kahloon, The Atlantic, 8 Feb. 2026
At least King Midas had the decency to regret his curse.
—Joe Wilkins Published Feb 5, Futurism, 5 Feb. 2026
In the sub-zero temperatures of winter, everyday Minnesotans have showed the nation their bravery, empathy and decency in the face of rogue agents masquerading as law enforcement officers.
—The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026
Basic human decency to another living being.
—Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decency
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Idrees Kahloon, The Atlantic, 8 Feb. 2026
At least King Midas had the decency to regret his curse.
—Joe Wilkins Published Feb 5, Futurism, 5 Feb. 2026
In the sub-zero temperatures of winter, everyday Minnesotans have showed the nation their bravery, empathy and decency in the face of rogue agents masquerading as law enforcement officers.
—The Editorial Board, Oc Register, 5 Feb. 2026
Basic human decency to another living being.
—Stephanie Giang-Paunon, FOXNews.com, 5 Feb. 2026
See All Example Sentences for decency
Cite this Entry
“Decency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decency. Accessed 14 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
decency
noun
de·cen·cy
ˈdēs-ᵊn-sē
plural decencies
1
a
: the quality or state of being decent : propriety
b
: agreement with standards of taste, quality, or proper behavior
decency, not fear of punishment, made them behave
2
: a standard of proper behavior
—usually used in plural
had been taught to observe the ordinary decencies
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