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American Dictionary of the English Language

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Decent


DE'CENT, adjective [Latin decens; Fr. decent ]

1. Becoming; fit; suitable, in words, behavior, dress and ceremony; as decent language; decent conduct or actions; decent ornaments or dress.

2. Comely; not gaudy or ostentatious.

A sable stole of Cyprus lawn

O'er the decent shoulders drawn.

3. Not immodest.

4. In popular language, moderate, but competent; not large; as a decent fortune. So a decent person is one not highly accomplished, nor offensively rude.

DE'CENTLY, adverb

1. In a decent or becoming manner; with propriety of behavior or speech.

2. Without immodesty.

Past hope of safety, 'twas his latest care,

Like falling Caesar, decently to die.