decency
n. uncountable B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˈdisənsi// UK //dˈiːsənsi// de·cen·cy
n. the quality of being polite, fair, and respectful toward others. It is the basic standard of good behavior that people expect in society.
n. the quality of conforming to accepted standards of morality or etiquette; basic fairness and respect in social conduct.
It is a matter of decency to say thank you.
She showed decency by offering her seat to the elderly passenger on the crowded train.
In times of crisis, basic decency often becomes the only currency that holds a community together when formal laws fail.
From Latin decentia, from decens. Equivalent to decent + -cy. Compare French décence.