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.
Source: Webster's 1828 American Dictionary ↗ · public-domain · returned verbatim, no AI