The adjective decent means sufficient or acceptable . The local diner you like to frequent may not serve a four-star breakfast, but it probably has decent food. DECENT meaning : 1. socially acceptable or good : 2. dressed or wearing clothes: 3. socially acceptable or good : . Learn more. The term ' decent ' derives its origins from the Latin word 'decens,' which means 'fitting' or 'suitable.' In the early 16th century, it was adopted into Middle English as ' decent ,' maintaining its fundamental sense of being appropriate or proper. Over time, it evolved to encompass notions of moral and social acceptability, referring to actions, behaviors, or individuals that adhere to a standard of propriety or respectability. Thus, the etymology of ' decent ' reflects its historical ... Decent is an adjective that can mean acceptable, proper, suitable, or kind. It can also mean not indecent, chaste, or respectable. See synonyms, examples, and pronunciation of decent .