properly

adverb

prop·​er·​ly ˈprä-pər-lē 

: in a proper manner:

a

: in an acceptable or suitable way

behaving properly

trying to get the system to work properly

"Oh yes, I am not at all ashamed of it. I would have everybody marry if they can do it properly."

—Jane Austen

b

: in an accurate or correct way

It might more properly be termed a musical device than a musical form.

—Aaron Copland

Scoop out the seeds (properly called arils, a botanical term that includes the tiny actual seeds and the juicy, edible pulp around them).

—David Karp

Synonyms

• appositely
• appropriately
• congruously
• correctly
• duly
• fittingly
• happily
• meetly
• right
• rightly
• suitably

Examples of properly in a Sentence

the scouts were properly dressed for a week of camping

Recent Examples on the Web

Root veggies, celery, peppers, brassicas, alliums, potatoes, strawberries, and legumes (beans and peas) need at least 12 inches of soil to grow properly. —Lauren Landers, Better Homes & Gardens, 19 Mar. 2025

The superstar recently pushed a new single from the project — one that has been a fan favorite for months — which finally becomes a radio hit now that it’s being pushed properly. —Hugh McIntyre, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025

Another aspect Libran stressed was the importance of not only properly developing an idea but paying attention to the smallest detail. —Preezy Brown, VIBE.com, 19 Mar. 2025

The prolific British writer, whose credits include His Dark Materials and stage show Harry Potter And The Cursed Child, argued that lower-budget, distinctively British series need to be properly funded to promote the growth of new writing talent. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 19 Mar. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

13th century, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for properly

• improperly

Kids Definition

properly

adverb

prop·​er·​ly

ˈpräp-ər-lē

1

: in a fit or suitable way

behave properly in church

2

: according to fact : correctly

properly labeled goods

properly speaking, whales are not fish