Episode Overview

Episode Title: decorous
Podcast: Merriam-Webster’s Word of the Day
Date: December 20, 2025
Host: Peter Sokolowski (for Merriam-Webster)
Main Theme:
This episode explores the word “decorous,” diving into its definition, historical use, and relevance in contemporary etiquette. The episode is succinct, aiming to enrich listeners’ vocabulary with one carefully chosen word and context.

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Definition and Usage

• Word: decorous
• Spelling: D-E-C-O-R-O-U-S
• Part of Speech: Adjective
• Meaning: A formal adjective used to describe an attitude or behavior characterized by propriety and good taste.
• Contemporary Relevance: Still applicable for describing “timeless courtesies like polite speech, proper attire, and covering one’s cough.”
  • [00:27] “Decorous is an adjective. It’s a formal adjective used to describe an attitude or behavior characterized by propriety and good taste.”
    (Peter Sokolowski)

2. Example of Usage in a Sentence

• Source: Indiewire
• Sentence Quoted:
  • [00:39] “Elizabeth reveals later that she felt she never belonged to the decorous world of parties and corsets and curls and feathers on the head.”
    (Peter Sokolowski, quoting Indiewire)
• Context: The example illustrated a world where strict, polite, and “decorous” behaviors and appearances were emphasized, highlighting the formal, almost restrictive nature of that society.

3. Historical Reference and Evolution

• Earliest Recorded Use:
  • From "The Rules of Civility," published in 1671.
• Example Quoted:
  • [00:56] “With these it is not decorous to look in the glass, comb, brush or do anything of that nature to ourselves whilst the said person be in the room.” (Peter Sokolowski, quoting The Rules of Civility, 1671)
• Analysis:
  • [01:08] “This rule of thumb may be a bit outdated. Like many behaviors once deemed unbecoming, public primping is unlikely to offend. In modern times, though, mores shift, decorous lives on...” (Peter Sokolowski)
• Insight:
  • Many “decorous” standards have ebbed over time, but the word still applies to universally polite behaviors.

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On the modern relevance of the word:

  • [01:17] “In modern times, though, mores shift. Decorous lives on to describe timeless courtesies like polite speech, proper attire, and covering one's cough with your word of the day.”
    (Peter Sokolowski)

• Word expertise and warmth:

  • The host’s tone is warm and informative throughout, making the linguistic history accessible and relevant.

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [00:27] — Definition of “decorous” and initial explanation
• [00:39] — Usage in a sentence (Indiewire quote)
• [00:56] — Historical usage from “Rules of Civility” (1671)
• [01:17] — Commentary on changing mores and enduring relevance

Episode Summary

Peter Sokolowski introduces listeners to the word “decorous,” outlining its definition as an adjective denoting proper and tasteful behavior. Through examples—both from modern media and a 17th-century etiquette manual—the episode traces how standards of what’s considered “decorous” have changed. While certain behaviors (such as grooming in public) are less likely to offend now than in centuries past, the word remains vital for describing universal, respectful behaviors. As always, the episode encourages expanding vocabulary and exploring word origins, presented in a concise and engaging style.