Decentness

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. The state of being proper, respectable, and morally sound encompasses the idea of acceptable behavior and ethical integrity
2. A quality that signifies appropriate conduct, dignity, and respectability reflects a moral uprightness in actions and values
3. The attribute of showing respectability and conforming to accepted moral standards

Etymology: Decentness is a plain formation: the adjective "decent" with the suffix "-ness" attached, turning a quality into a noun. The adjective itself came into English from Latin "decens", meaning fitting, proper or becoming, a sense that still lies behind the modern idea of respectability. The suffix is the native English one, descended from Old English "-nes", which has been used to form abstract nouns since the earliest English, so the word is a hybrid of a borrowed Latin root and a Germanic ending. Its meaning follows the adjective's shift from outward fitness to moral propriety. A "decent" person was first one who was properly dressed and behaved in a way that suited their station, and the noun names the condition of meeting those standards.

Synonyms: respectability, dignity, decency, honor, virtue

Antonyms: indecency, dishonor, immorality, shame, corruption