# indecency

/ˌɪnˈdisənsi/ (US) · /ˌɪndˈiːsənsi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/indecency
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

behavior that shocks people because it breaks accepted rules about what is proper, especially about sex or the body.

For teachers: behavior or language that violates accepted standards of moral propriety, especially concerning sexual conduct or exposure. Frequently contrasted with decency as its direct opposite.

## Examples

- The TV channel avoids indecency before nine o'clock.
- The comedian was warned that his jokes bordered on indecency for a family show.
- The trial turned on whether the photographs constituted artistic expression or indecency under a statute written long before digital media blurred public and private boundaries.

## Synonyms

obscenity, vulgarity, lewdness

## Antonyms

decency, modesty, propriety

## Usage notes

- Uncountable for the general quality; countable when referring to specific acts ('several indecencies').

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.