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

• inappropriateness
• incorrectness
• indecency
• indecorousness
• indecorum
• indelicateness
• unbecomingness
• unfitness
• unseemliness
• untowardness

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

While there is no direct evidence of impropriety, the episode raises the question: Could a president be prosecuted for accepting bribes for pardons? —Brendan Rascius, Miami Herald, 30 May 2025

But just when those employees are most reliant on their union for protection and advocacy, the union is facing its biggest allegation of financial impropriety in at least 25 years. —Erin Mansfield, USA Today, 29 May 2025

That footage appeared to show Gale admitting to other acts of similar improprieties. —Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News, 28 May 2025

Deel has denied any wrongdoing and accused Rippling of its own improprieties, including stealing money from clients. —Grady McGregor, New York Times, 21 May 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