impropriety

im·pro·pri·e·ty

noun \ˌim-p(r)ə-ˈprī-ə-tē\

plural im·pro·pri·e·ties

Definition of IMPROPRIETY

1

: an improper or indecorous act or remark; especially : an unacceptable use of a word or of language

2

: the quality or state of being improper

Examples of IMPROPRIETY

1. He has a reputation for impropriety.
2. The judge excused herself from the case to avoid any appearance of impropriety.
3. She was shocked by the young man's impropriety.
4. She was shocked by the impropriety of his behavior.
5. He has been accused of financial improprieties.

Origin of IMPROPRIETY

French or Late Latin; French impropriété, from Late Latin improprietat-, improprietas, from Latin improprius

First Known Use: 1607

Related to IMPROPRIETY

Synonyms

inappropriateness, incorrectness, indecency, indecorousness, indecorum, indelicateness, unbecomingness, unseemliness, untowardness

Antonyms

appropriateness, correctness, decency, decorousness, decorum, fitness, properness, propriety, rightness, seemliness, suitability, suitableness

Related Words

coarseness, crudeness, vulgarity; immodesty, naughtiness; imprudence, indiscreetness, indiscretion; churlishness, discourteousness, disrespect, impertinence, impoliteness, impudence, incivility, inconsiderateness, inconsideration, insolence, rudeness, ungraciousness

Near Antonyms

discretion, prudence; etiquette, form, manners, proprieties; considerateness, consideration, genteelness, gentility, graciousness, thoughtfulness

Rhymes with IMPROPRIETY

contrariety, inebriety, insobriety, notoriety