decorum

noun

de·​co·​rum di-ˈkȯr-əm How to pronounce decorum (audio)
1
: literary and dramatic propriety : fitness
according to strict neoclassic decorum only the aristocracy had the right to appear in tragedyIrving Babbitt
2
: propriety and good taste in conduct or appearance
strict in her notions of decorumJane Austen
3
: orderliness
the organization's decorum has rarely been shakenW. F. Longgood
4
decorums plural : the conventions of polite behavior
the established sobrieties and decorums of English lifeH. G. Wells

Examples of decorum in a Sentence

He has no sense of decorum. high standards of decorum are usually required when attending the opera
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.
Traditionally such words haven’t been published or aired in mainstream outlets that sought to uphold what once was seen as a standard of decorum. Anthony Man, Sun Sentinel, 6 July 2025 Robert Rodriguez lionizes Richard Linklater Historically one of highest of Texas Medal of Arts highlights came in 2009 when moviemaker Robert Rodriguez accepted his honor with a lively, funny speech that threw out the rules of decorum. Michael Barnes, Austin American Statesman, 2 July 2025 In keeping with House decorum rules, members can't use the platform to disparage other members. Mary Jo Pitzl, AZCentral.com, 13 July 2025 Different views on the topic Some readers challenge the emphasis on political decorum, arguing that respect must be earned through honorable conduct rather than election victories. Los Angeles Times, 4 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for decorum

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from neuter of decorus — see decorous

First Known Use

1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decorum was in 1568

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Cite this Entry

“Decorum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorum. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

decorum

noun
de·​co·​rum di-ˈkōr-əm How to pronounce decorum (audio)
-ˈkȯr-
1
: agreement with accepted standards of conduct : proper behavior
social decorum
2
: the state or condition of being calm, orderly, and well-regulated
the decorum of the meeting

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