də̇ˈkōrəm, dēˈk-, -kȯr- noun
( -s )
Etymology: Latin, from neuter of decorus
1. : literary and dramatic propriety especially as formulated and practiced by the neoclassicists:
a. : a literary standard of appropriateness drawn from classical models and justified by nature, which was equated with social custom, and by reason, which was identified with good sense
wishes to subject art and literature to an elaborate set of restrictions in the name of decorum — Irving Babbitt
b. : a dramatic standard requiring that a character be presented in a way congruous with his presumed type or social condition
according to strict neoclassic decorum only the aristocracy had the right to appear in tragedy — Irving Babbitt
2. : propriety and good taste especially in conduct, manners, or appearance : correctness
most correct in her conduct, strict in her notions of decorum , and with manners that were held a standard of good breeding — Jane Austen
the whole performance was conducted with perfect decorum — Augustus John
3. : the quality or state of being decorous : orderliness
the organization's decorum has rarely been shaken — W.F.Longgood
4.
a. obsolete : a fitting and appropriate act
b. : an observance or requirement of polite behavior : convention — usually used in plural
their restoration to the established sobrieties and decorums of English life — H.G.Wells
5. obsolete : beauty deriving from fitness or congruousness : comeliness