Definition of 'indecent'

Word Frequency

indecent

(ɪndiːsənt )

1. adjective

If you describe something as indecent, you mean that it is shocking and offensive, usually because it relates to sex or nakedness.

He accused Mrs Moore of making an indecent suggestion.

indecently adverb [ADVERB with verb, ADVERB adjective]

He behaved indecently.

...an indecently short skirt.

2. adjective

If you describe the speed or amount of something as indecent, you are indicating, often in a humorous way, that it is much quicker or larger than is usual or desirable.

The opposition says the legislation was drafted with indecent haste.

Synonyms: unbecoming, unsuitable, vulgar, improper More Synonyms of indecent

indecently adverb

...an indecently large office.

More Synonyms of indecent

Video: pronunciation of 'indecent'

Word Frequency

indecent in British

(ɪnˈdiːsənt )

adjective

offensive to standards of decency, esp in sexual matters

unseemly or improper (esp in the phrase indecent haste)

Derived forms

indecently (inˈdecently)

adverb

Word Frequency

indecent in American

(ɪnˈdisənt ; indēˈsənt)

adjective

not decent

; specif.,

not proper and fitting; unseemly; improper

morally offensive; obscene

SIMILAR WORDS: imˈproper

Derived forms

indecently (inˈdecently)

adverb

Word origin of 'indecent'

< Fr or L: Fr indécent < L indecens

Example sentences containing 'indecent'

These examples have been automatically selected and may contain sensitive content. Read more…

It emerged that he has a conviction for indecent exposure. Times, Sunday Times (2016)When he was arrested, police discovered he was sharing more than 30,000 indecent images online. Times, Sunday Times (2017)We think there ought to be more indecent pictures painted. Times, Sunday Times (2015)They did think five of the photos indecent. Times, Sunday Times (2016)Thousands of indecent images were found on his computer. Times, Sunday Times (2008)In contrast the funeral staff had indecent amounts of fun. Times, Sunday Times (2007)Football moves on with almost indecent haste. Times, Sunday Times (2007)There could be no possible footage of us being part of something indecent. Times, Sunday Times (2010)They face up to a year in prison if convicted of indecent exposure. The Sun (2012)Sending indecent pictures online without consent of the recipient carries a maximum sixmonth sentence. The Sun (2013)It is possible an indecent photograph was sent. Times, Sunday Times (2006)But let us not move with too indecent haste from one challenge to the next. Times, Sunday Times (2016)It concerns a man on trial for indecent exposure. Times, Sunday Times (2015)With indecent haste, we both scrambled up to his bedroom. Times, Sunday Times (2006)Still the finger tugged at her, and there was something suddenly indecent in the gesture which revolted her. various & introduction by Deirdre Chapman A Roomful of Birds - Scottish short stories 1990 (1990)