indecent exposure

noun

: intentional exposure of part of one's body (such as the genitals) in a place where such exposure is likely to be an offense against the generally accepted standards of decency

Examples of indecent exposure in a Sentence

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.
The 30-year-old beauty — who appeared naked after disrobing out of a black fur coat to reveal a body-hugging, see-through micro dress — will not be legally charged for indecent exposure or other offenses. —Karu F. Daniels, New York Daily News, 6 Feb. 2025 His previous charges include speeding, driving without a license, domestic violence, indecent exposure and four prior arrests for driving under the influence. —Elizabeth Pritchett, Fox News, 24 Jan. 2025 Bronx prosecutors upgraded the charges to endangering the welfare of a child, as well as harassment and indecent exposure. —Thomas Tracy, New York Daily News, 16 Jan. 2025 Four months prior, Kelley was arrested in Alabama on charges of indecent exposure and obstructing governmental operations, per the local news outlet AL.com. —Ilana Kaplan, People.com, 2 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for indecent exposure 

Word History

First Known Use

1828, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of indecent exposure was in 1828

Dictionary Entries Near indecent exposure

indecent assault

indecent exposure

Indecidua

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Indecent exposure.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/indecent%20exposure. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

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Medical Definition

indecent exposure

noun
: intentional exposure of part of one's body (as the genitalia) in a place where such exposure is likely to be an offense against the generally accepted standards of decency in a community

Legal Definition

indecent exposure

noun
in·​de·​cent exposure
: the exposing of one's private body parts (as the genitals) either recklessly or intentionally and under circumstances likely to cause offense or affront

Note: Indecent exposure is generally classified as a misdemeanor.

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