indecency

noun

in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈdē-sᵊn(t)-sē How to pronounce indecency (audio)
Synonyms of indecencynext
1
: the quality or state of being indecent
a book criticized for its indecency
2
: something (such as a word or action) that is indecent
arrested for public indecency

Examples of indecency in a Sentence

The book has been criticized for indecency. I was shocked by the indecency of their language. He was accused of sexual indecencies.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some of the city's health standards will also be revised to add exceptions to existing indecency laws. Aki Nace, CBS News, 25 June 2026 Donaldson, 63, was found guilty at Newry Crown Court of one count of rape, four counts of gross indecency and 13 indecent assault charges involving two girls from 1985 to 2008. ABC News, 22 June 2026 Egypt has arrested and prosecuted gays and lesbians on the basis of vague indecency laws and has cracked down on any outward expressions of Pride, especially the waving of rainbow flags. Andrew Destin, Chicago Tribune, 17 June 2026 On this day in 1895, Wilde was convicted of gross indecency for his homosexual relationships—a crime in Victorian England. Encyclopedia Britannica, 18 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for indecency

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indecency was in 1589

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Cite this Entry

“Indecency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indecency. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

Kids Definition

indecency

noun
in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈdēs-ən-sē How to pronounce indecency (audio)
plural indecencies
1
: lack of decency
2
: an indecent act or word

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