Definition of decency

The word "decency" has its roots in the 14th century. It comes from the Old French word "décence", which is derived from the Latin "decēns", meaning "becoming" or "seemly". In Latin, "decēns" is a combination of "de-" (meaning "from" or "of") and "cēns" (meaning "sense" or "judgment"). So, the word "decency" originally meant having good sense, good judgment, or being proper in one's words and actions. Over time, the meaning of "decency" expanded to include moral correctness, respectability, and good taste. In the 17th century, the word took on a more formal connotation, referring to social norms and moral standards. Today, "decency" is often used to describe behavior that is respectable, moderate, and free from excess or impropriety.