Decorum

usgb/dɪˈkɔːrəm/
noun

Behaviour that is controlled, calm, and polite.

Even in a heated argument, it's important to maintain your decorum.
Visual representation of "decorum" - Behaviour that is controlled, calm, and polite.

Often appears as...

  • maintain decorum
  • breach of decorum

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 3
Visual representation of "decorum"
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Social Expectations

Decorum involves meeting social expectations for polite behavior in different situations.

Illustration for Social Expectations
She showed perfect decorum at the dinner party, impressing the hosts.
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Emotional Control

Using 'decorum' can imply that a person is keeping their emotions in check.

Illustration for Emotional Control
Despite the sad news, he conducted himself with decorum.
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Public Behavior

Decorum often refers to behavior in public or formal settings rather than private ones.

Illustration for Public Behavior
At the award ceremony, all the recipients acted with decorum.
Word comparison image

Compare with

civilitycourtesyetiquetteformalwearpoliteproprietyprotocolrespectability
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Visual representation of the word "Decorum"

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