impropriety

noun

im·​pro·​pri·​e·​ty ˌim-p(r)ə-ˈprī-ə-tē How to pronounce impropriety (audio)
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

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
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.
In the Georgia case, a key legal question in the proceedings has been whether state law requires the disqualification of a district attorney only for an actual conflict of interest or merely just the appearance of impropriety. Sam Gringlas, NPR, 19 Dec. 2024 The department's statement emphasized that dishonesty is considered one of the most egregious violations in law enforcement and that Pettis failed to take accountability or recognize the severity or impropriety of her behavior. Sharon Coolidge, Cincinnati Enquirer, 12 Dec. 2024 Listen to this article Loading your audio article Authorities confirmed Sunday a Connecticut police officer found dead after his arrest for improprieties with a child committed suicide. Theresa Braine, New York Daily News, 9 Dec. 2024 While a segment of grassroots Republicans still believe improprieties cost former President Donald Trump the 2020 election, his decisive victory this month has sparked a segment of Democratic voters to now question the 2024 results. Samuel J. Robinson, Detroit Free Press, 14 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for impropriety 

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

Time Traveler
The first known use of impropriety was in 1607

Dictionary Entries Near impropriety

Cite this Entry

“Impropriety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impropriety. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on impropriety

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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