impropriety

American  

[im-pruh-prahy-i-tee] / ˌɪm prəˈpraɪ ɪ ti /

noun

plural

improprieties

1. the quality or condition of being improper; incorrectness.

2. inappropriateness; unsuitableness.

3. unseemliness; indecorousness.

4. an erroneous or unsuitable expression, act, etc.

5. an improper use of a word or phrase.

---

impropriety British  

/ ˌɪmprəˈpraɪɪtɪ /

noun

1. lack of propriety; indecency; indecorum

2. an improper act or use

3. the state of being improper

---

Etymology

Origin of impropriety

From the Late Latin word improprietās, dating back to 1605–15. See im- ², propriety

Example Sentences

Whether in interviews or the context of her films, Fennell doesn’t shy from the fact that she enjoys themes that flirt with impropriety or visuals that push the limits.

From Salon • Feb. 23, 2026

However, Jackson's later years would be punctuated by scandal, including revelations of marital infidelity and financial impropriety involving his son and political heir, Jesse Jackson Jr, who served as a congressman from Illinois.

From BBC • Feb. 17, 2026

There’s a little bit of explanation under this, but the headline is: Judges should avoid impropriety and the appearance of impropriety in all activities.

From Slate • Dec. 11, 2025

James Washington, who recently was the head of UCLA’s NIL collective, denies any impropriety tied to funds being funneled through a nonprofit he runs.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2025

On the other hand, if the intentions of the merchant were not honorable, you’d better believe that she’d be heading in their direction to inform them of their malfeasance and impropriety.

From "The Autobiography of Malcolm X" by Alex Malcolm X;Hailey

Related Words

• indecency