Definitions for: Propriety


[n] correct or appropriate behavior



Webster (1913) Definition: Pro*pri"e*ty, n.; pl. Proprieties. [F.
propri['e]t['e], L. proprietas, fr. proprius one's own,
proper. See Property, Proper.]
1. Individual right to hold property; ownership by personal
title; property. [Obs.] ``Onles this propriety be
exiled.'' --Robynson (More's Utopia).

So are the proprieties of a wife to be disposed of
by her lord, and yet all are for her provisions, it
being a part of his need to refresh and supply hers.
--Jer. Taylor.

2. That which is proper or peculiar; an inherent property or
quality; peculiarity. [Obs.] --Bacon.

We find no mention hereof in ancient zo["o]graphers,
. . . who seldom forget proprieties of such a
nature. --Sir T.
Browne.

3. The quality or state of being proper; suitableness to an
acknowledged or correct standard or rule; consonance with
established principles, rules, or customs; fitness;
appropriateness; as, propriety of behavior, language,
manners, etc. ``The rule of propriety,'' --Locke.

Synonyms: correctitude, properness

Antonyms: improperness, impropriety

See Also: appropriateness, behavior, behaviour, conduct, correctness, decency, decorousness, decorum, demeanor, demeanour, deportment, good form, grace, modesty, priggishness, primness, reserve, rightness, seemliness

Try our:
Scrabble Word Finder

Scrabble Cheat

Words With Friends Cheat

Hanging With Friends Cheat

Scramble With Friends Cheat

Ruzzle Cheat



Related Resources:
animals begin with x
animals starting with j