respectability
n.the quality of being seen as honest, moral, and socially acceptable. It is about having a good reputation that fits the standards of your community.
n.the quality of being regarded as honest, moral, and socially acceptable. Often associated with the maintenance of a public image that conforms to traditional or middle-class values.
“He worked hard to maintain his respectability in the eyes of his neighbors.”
“The politician's scandal threatened his respectability, leading to a sharp decline in public support and donations.”
“In the Victorian era, respectability was a primary concern for the middle class, as it served as a buffer against the perceived moral decay of the lower classes and the radicalism of the working poor.”
“Nonetheless, here lies Andersen, actively proving that even great authors were one lawn tantrum away from tearing at this veneer of respectability.”
From respect + -ability.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.