rhizoverbBeta
DictionaryindecentOffensive to accepted standards
adjective

indecent

in-DEE-sunt/ɪnˈdiːsnt/

Offensive to accepted standards of decency or proper behavior.

The dinner guest makes an indecent gesture that shocks the others.

At a formal dinner, a man openly makes an obscene middle-finger gesture across the table while an older guest recoils in offended disapproval.
Etymology
inLatinnot
+decLatinto be fitting or suitable
+entLatinpresent-participle ending

The underlying idea is something that is not fitting or suitable. From the broader meaning “unbecoming” or “in bad taste,” the adjective came to describe what offends against propriety.

In context

Storytime Haven190:56
She felt so miserably undressed in its low neck and short sleeves. And that low, crimson girdle around the hips seemed positively indecent.
📖 The Blue Castle by L. M. Montgomery | A Tale of Love & Freedom 💙✨

More examples

  • She condemned the indecent remark.
  • The conduct was indecent.
  • They rejected the indecent proposal.

Forms

indecent

indecency noun — behavior violating accepted standards

Similar words

improper
Breaks accepted behavior standards more broadly.
obscene
A stronger term, often specifically sexual or offensive.