Decorous
hardPositive toneDEK-er-uhs
adjective
Definition
marked by propriety and good taste in behavior
Memory hook
DECOROUS sounds like 'decorate'—a decorous person 'decorates' every occasion with proper, dignified, tasteful behavior.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The guests maintained a decorous silence throughout the solemn ceremony.”
“Her decorous manners never slipped, even when the host's joke fell flat.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The guests maintained a ______ silence throughout the solemn ceremony.”
Show answer
decorous
Synonyms
Antonyms
Categories
GRE Tip
Decorous is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "proper" or "seemly" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "unseemly".
Related GRE Words
aberrant
Deviating from what is normal or expected
appropriate
(verb) To take something for one's own use without permission; (adjective) suitable or proper
artless
free of guile or pretense; naturally simple and sincere
capricious
Given to sudden and unaccountable changes of mood or behavior
circumspect
Wary and unwilling to take risks; cautious
complaisant
Willing to please others; obliging; agreeable
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