noun Uncommon

decency

DEE-suhn-see

Decency (noun) means the quality of behaving in a way that is morally proper, polite, or respectable. Example: “He had the decency to apologize after realizing his mistake.”

noun

The quality of behaving in a way that is morally proper, polite, or respectable.

"He had the decency to apologize after realizing his mistake."

"Basic human decency requires that we treat others with respect."

How to use decency

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishGood, proper, respectful behavior — doing the right thing.

Common pairings

common decency the decency to do something basic decency

Word forms

decencies plural

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He had the _____ to apologize after realizing his mistake.

Etymology

From Latin decentia, related to decens, "fitting, proper" — the same root as "decent."

Origin: Latin

Rhymes for decency

agency latency urgency potency regency currency tendency clemency leniency frequency emergency residency

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Frequently asked questions

What does “decency” mean?

The word “decency” means the quality of behaving in a way that is morally proper, polite, or respectable. In plain terms, good, proper, respectful behavior — doing the right thing.

How do you pronounce “decency”?

“Decency” is pronounced DEE-suhn-see (/ˈdiːsənsi/ in IPA).

How do you use “decency” in a sentence?

Here is “decency” used in a sentence: “He had the decency to apologize after realizing his mistake.”

What part of speech is “decency”?

“Decency” is a noun.

Where does the word “decency” come from?

The word “decency” comes from Latin. From Latin decentia, related to decens, "fitting, proper" — the same root as "decent.".

Is “decency” a common word?

“Decency” is an uncommon word in modern English.