decencies

UK: /ˈdiːs^ənsɪz/

From decency (n): npl: decencies

Collins Concise English Dictionary © HarperCollins Publishers::

decencies / ˈdiːs^ənsɪz/ noun:plural

1. the decencies ⇒ those things that are considered necessary for a decent life
2. standards of behaviour considered correct by polite society; proprieties

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

de•cen•cy /ˈdisənsi/   n., pl. -cies. 

1. the state or quality of being decent:
   [uncountable] At least have the decency to apologize.
2. decencies, [plural] standards of proper and acceptable behavior;
   proprieties:
   has the decencies expected in modern society.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

de•cen•cy  (dē′sən sē), n., pl. -cies. 

1. the state or quality of being decent.
2. conformity to the recognized standard of propriety, good taste, modesty, etc.
3. decencies:
   • the recognized standards of decent or proper behavior;
     proprieties:
     The least you can expect from them is some respect for the decencies.
   • the requirements or amenities for decent or comfortable living:
     to be able to afford the decencies.

• Latin decentia comeliness, decency, equivalent. to decent- (stem of decēns) fitting (see decent) + -ia noun, nominal suffix
• 1560–70

Synonyms

• 2. decorum, respectability, gentility.