decorum

noun

de·​co·​rum di-ˈkȯr-əm How to pronounce decorum (audio)
1
: literary and dramatic propriety : fitness
according to strict neoclassic decorum only the aristocracy had the right to appear in tragedyIrving Babbitt
2
: propriety and good taste in conduct or appearance
strict in her notions of decorumJane Austen
3
: orderliness
the organization's decorum has rarely been shakenW. F. Longgood
4
decorums plural : the conventions of polite behavior
the established sobrieties and decorums of English lifeH. G. Wells

Examples of decorum in a Sentence

He has no sense of decorum. high standards of decorum are usually required when attending the opera
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tuscany with a side of magic: Savoring Bolivia’s wine country Singapore is known for its decorum rules, such as no spitting or chewing gum. The Washington Post, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 Apr. 2025 Unfortunately, many, such as U.S. Sen. Tammy Duckworth, have abandoned that decorum, resorting to profanity that was once unthinkable in professional settings. Chicago Tribune, 1 Apr. 2025 During the hearing Friday, Chamberlain also addressed other courtroom decorum issues, including whether police officers could wear their uniforms while attending the trial. Robert A. Cronkleton, Kansas City Star, 28 Mar. 2025 The spat came amid a broader debate over decorum on Capitol Hill, prompted largely by Rep. Al Green’s (D-Texas) heckling of President Trump during his speech before Congress last week. Mike Lillis, The Hill, 13 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for decorum

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from neuter of decorus — see decorous

First Known Use

1568, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of decorum was in 1568

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Cite this Entry

“Decorum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/decorum. Accessed 25 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

decorum

noun
de·​co·​rum di-ˈkōr-əm How to pronounce decorum (audio)
-ˈkȯr-
1
: agreement with accepted standards of conduct : proper behavior
social decorum
2
: the state or condition of being calm, orderly, and well-regulated
the decorum of the meeting

More from Merriam-Webster on decorum

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