indecency

noun

in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈdē-sᵊn(t)-sē 

1

: the quality or state of being indecent

2

: something (such as a word or action) that is indecent

Synonyms

• vulgarity
• grossness
• obscenity
• lewdness
• suggestiveness
• crudeness
• foulness
• coarseness
• lasciviousness

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

He was charged with disorderly conduct, criminal trespassing, public indecency and indecent exposure. —Paulina Dedaj, FOXNews.com, 8 Aug. 2025

He is charged with disorderly conduct, criminal trespassing, public indecency and indecent exposure. —Alyce Brown, Chicago Tribune, 8 Aug. 2025

The charges associated with the acts include disorderly conduct, public indecency/indecent exposure, and criminal trespass. —Issy Ronald, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2025

They are reportedly charged with disorderly conduct, public indecency/indecent exposure, and criminal trespass, according to Reuters, with a court date yet to be established. —Jacob Lev, CNN Money, 8 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for indecency

• decency
• recency

Kids Definition

indecency

noun

in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈdēs-ən-sē 

plural indecencies

1

: lack of decency

2

: an indecent act or word