impropriety

noun

im·​pro·​pri·​e·​ty ˌim-p(r)ə-ˈprī-ə-tē 

plural improprieties

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

Synonyms

• unfitness
• inappropriateness
• disrespect
• unseemliness
• incorrectness

Examples of impropriety in a Sentence

He has a reputation for impropriety.

The judge excused herself from the case to avoid any appearance of impropriety.

She was shocked by the young man's impropriety.

She was shocked by the impropriety of his behavior.

He has been accused of financial improprieties.

Recent Examples on the Web

Although House rules allow members of Congress to provide gifts to other members, there is strict guidance on the appearance of impropriety and required disclosures. —Jeff McDonald, Mercury News, 18 Aug. 2025

Although House rules allow members of Congress to provide gifts to other members, there is strict guidance on the appearance of impropriety and required disclosures. —Jeff McDonald, San Diego Union-Tribune, 16 Aug. 2025

The appearance of impropriety, or worse, is too great. —Isabel Van Brugen, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Aug. 2025

However, Powell has firmly maintained that there has been no impropriety associated with the cost overruns of the renovation project. —Brian Cheung, NBC news, 7 Aug. 2025

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for impropriety

• contrariety
• inebriety
• notoriety
• antianxiety
• intersociety
• anxiety
• impiety
• propriety
• satiety
• sobriety
• society
• variety

Kids Definition

impropriety

noun

im·​pro·​pri·​ety

ˌim-prə-ˈprī-ət-ē

plural improprieties

1

: the quality or state of being improper

2

: an improper act or remark