rhizoverbBeta
DictionarydecentSatisfactory quality
adjective

decent

DEE-suhnt/ˈdiːsnt/

Meeting reasonable standards of quality or conduct.

The diner quietly enjoys a decent meal, simple but satisfying.

A diner gives quiet approval to a simple, well-prepared everyday meal: reasonably good and satisfying, without being exceptional or luxurious.
Etymology
decLatinto be fitting or suitable
+entLatinpresent participle ending

Being “fitting” first concerned what suited someone's rank or met social standards. That idea broadened to meeting an acceptable standard: respectable or simply good enough.

In context

FOX Sports0:45
he's decent he's not a game breaker but he doesn't need to be
Skip & Shannon discuss the future of Russell Wilson after Seahawks loss to WFT | NFL | UNDISPUTED

More examples

  • You can find a decent apartment within that budget.
  • It's decent of you to help without expecting anything back.
  • Please put on something decent before our guests arrive.

Forms

decent · more decent · most decent

decency noun — Behavior that meets accepted moral standards.

decently adverb — In an acceptable or reasonably good manner.

Similar words

adequate
Emphasizes meeting basic needs rather than being reasonably good.
respectable
Emphasizes social approval or standing rather than personal kindness.
modest
For clothing, specifically emphasizes avoiding exposure or drawing attention.