impropriety

noun

im·​pro·​pri·​e·​ty ˌim-p(r)ə-ˈprī-ə-tē 

plural improprieties

1

: an improper or indecorous act or remark

especially : an unacceptable use of a word or of language

2

: the quality or state of being improper

Synonyms

• inappropriateness
• incorrectness
• indecency
• indecorousness
• indecorum
• indelicateness
• unbecomingness
• unfitness
• unseemliness
• untowardness

Examples of impropriety in a Sentence

He has a reputation for impropriety.

The judge excused herself from the case to avoid any appearance of impropriety.

She was shocked by the young man's impropriety.

She was shocked by the impropriety of his behavior.

He has been accused of financial improprieties.

Recent Examples on the Web

Although the president isn’t subject to conflict of interest laws, most presidents have adhered to them anyway to avoid any appearance of impropriety. —Allison Morrow, CNN, 28 Nov. 2024

The people involved have denied any allegations of bias or impropriety. —Gaby Del Valle, The Verge, 31 Oct. 2024

That’s when these two glittering divas (spot-on costumes by Maggie Morgan) sip champagne and plot improprieties that would make a TikTok sexpert blush. —Karen D'souza, The Mercury News, 25 Oct. 2024

April 8, 2024 More allegations of impropriety by the prosecution. —Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 31 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

French or Late Latin; French impropriété, from Late Latin improprietat-, improprietas, from Latin improprius

First Known Use

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

impropriety

noun

im·​pro·​pri·​ety

ˌim-prə-ˈprī-ət-ē

plural improprieties

1

: the quality or state of being improper

2

: an improper act or remark