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.
But even if such actions aren’t influenced by insider knowledge, ethics experts warn that trading stock while the federal government’s actions move markets can create the appearance of impropriety. Robert Faturechi, ProPublica, 22 May 2025 The White House has previously downplayed concerns about potential conflicts of interest between Trump and his family crypto businesses, saying the president uses a blind trust to avoid improprieties. Miranda Nazzaro, The Hill, 7 May 2025 Herman denied any improprieties from the Carter- and Clinton-era dealings and no inquests were launched. Herman, confirmed in April 1997, was soon thrown into a major labor clash. Arkansas Online, 28 Apr. 2025 Although Yoon steadfastly denies any impropriety, mass protests erupted to demand accountability and his ouster. Charlie Campbell, Time, 4 Apr. 2025 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Impropriety.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/impropriety. Accessed 28 May. 2025.

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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