indecency

noun

in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈdē-sᵊn(t)-sē How to pronounce indecency (audio)
1
: the quality or state of being indecent
2
: something (such as a word or action) that is indecent

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
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.
In short, when faced with a genuine choice between civility and decency versus vulgarity and indecency, most Americans who voted in the 2024 elections opted for the latter. Mordechai Gordon, Hartford Courant, 12 Nov. 2024 Ogg also said at least two of those who paid to obtain the fake certification were charged with indecency with a child as well as online solicitation of a minor. Christina Shaw, Fox News, 29 Oct. 2024 As an armchair legal scholar, my guess is that constitutes burglary, property damage, and perhaps public indecency. Frederick Dreier, Outside Online, 18 Nov. 2024 One of the teachers has been charged with indecency with a child, while the other was charged for online solicitation, the DA said. Jonathan Limehouse, USA TODAY, 29 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for indecency 

Word History

First Known Use

1589, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of indecency was in 1589

Dictionary Entries Near indecency

Cite this Entry

“Indecency.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indecency. Accessed 11 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

indecency

noun
in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˈ)in-ˈdēs-ən-sē How to pronounce indecency (audio)
plural indecencies
1
: lack of decency
2
: an indecent act or word

More from Merriam-Webster on indecency

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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