indecency

noun

in·​de·​cen·​cy (ˌ)in-ˈdē-sᵊn(t)-sē 

1

: the quality or state of being indecent

a book criticized for its indecency

2

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

arrested for public indecency

Synonyms of indecency

• grossness
• vulgarity
• 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

Gadd appeared ​at Southwark Crown Court by video link ‌from ⁠prison and denied four counts of indecent assault, two counts of indecency with a child and ​two counts ​of unlawful ⁠sexual intercourse with a girl under 13. — Reuters, NBC news, 2 Sep. 2026

Although these are funny scenarios, the potential charges that come with public indecency are not. — Paige Moore, AZCentral.com, 1 Sep. 2026

Schlosser was charged with Class 4 felony public indecency involving exposure within 500 feet of an elementary school. — Adam Harrington, CBS News, 27 Aug. 2026

Our views on morality and indecency are rife with inconsistency and hypocrisy. — Literary Hub, 12 Aug. 2026

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