Wherever rules, principles, and standard procedures have been clearly stated, propriety can become an issue. Something improper usually isn't actually illegal, but it makes people uncomfortable by …

PROPRIETY definition: conformity to established standards of good or proper behavior or manners. See examples of propriety used in a sentence.

Before the winter was far advanced, it is actually on record that Emmy took a night and received company with great propriety and modesty.

PROPRIETY definition: 1. correct moral behaviour or actions: 2. the rules of polite social behaviour: 3. correct moral…. Learn more.

[uncountable] moral and social behaviour that is considered to be correct and acceptable. They questioned the propriety of his conduct. They were careful to observe the proprieties. The …

propriety (prəˈpraɪətɪ) n, pl -ties 1. the quality or state of being appropriate or fitting 2. conformity to the prevailing standard of behaviour, speech, etc

Dec 25, 2025 · “Divine receptacle of excellence, let it not be deemed impertinent, or deviating from the rules of propriety, if I propound one queſtion which now labours in my breaſt; aſſuring me firſt, you will …

propriety, n. meanings, etymology, pronunciation and more in the Oxford English Dictionary

pro•pri•e•ty /prəˈpraɪɪti/ n., pl. -ties. agreement with established standards of good or proper behavior or manners:[uncountable] behaving with the utmost propriety. suitability:[uncountable] The propriety …

Propriety is like the noun form of "proper" and "appropriate." It comes from the same root as the word property, in the sense of "a distinctive character or quality."