adv, slang ·Common ·High school level

Definitions

Adverb

1. 1
   In a proper manner, appropriately, suitably; correctly, justifiably

   "Does she think the repairs have been properly done?"

2. 2
   individually; in one's own manner. obsolete
3. 3
   Entirely; extremely; thoroughly. colloquial

   "I was properly tired after that party."

Adverb

1. 1
   in accordance with what is appropriate or suitable for the circumstances wordnet
2. 2
   indicating exactness or preciseness wordnet
3. 3
   in the right manner; correctly; suitably wordnet

Synonyms

All synonyms

appropriatelydecentlyabsolutelyabstractedlyabstractlyacceptably

Antonyms

All antonyms

en massepartlyimproperly

Example

More examples

"You've been properly led up the garden path."

Etymology

From proper + -ly.

Data sourced from Wiktionary, WordNet, CMU, and other open linguistic databases. Updated March 2026.