punctual

adjective

punc·​tu·​al ˈpəŋk-chə-wəl How to pronounce punctual (audio)
-chəl
: being on time : prompt
punctuality noun
punctually adverb

Did you know?

The original meaning of punctual described a puncture made by a surgeon. The word has meant lots of other things through the centuries, usually involving being precise about small points. And today punctuality is all about time; a punctual train or a punctual payment or a punctual person shows up "on the dot".

Examples of punctual in a Sentence

the punctual delivery of the daily mail
Recent Examples on the Web Ahead of the World Series, which begins tonight, Dan Greene, Daniel A. Gross, and Zach Helfand, who together make up the coaching staff of our vaunted softball team, thought that the New York Yankees and Los Angeles Dodgers might appreciate some tips based on their expertise: Be punctual. Ian Crouch, The New Yorker, 25 Oct. 2024 In 2023, the airport ranked as the world’s most punctual, according to a report from the travel data analytics firm Cirium. Celia Fernandez, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2024 Another red flag is if your usually punctual bud (who’s known for being reliable) is comfortable canceling plans only with you. Jenna Ryu, SELF, 19 July 2024 That is, by accumulating a capsule accessories wardrobe of sorts, a concise collection of shoes that can interchangeably go with just about everything, letting my clothes do most of the talking, and keeping me (somewhat) punctual. Pema Bakshi, refinery29.com, 4 Apr. 2024 See all Example Sentences for punctual 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'punctual.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, having a sharp point, from Medieval Latin punctualis of a point, from Latin punctus pricking, point, from pungere to prick — more at pungent

First Known Use

1669, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punctual was in 1669

Dictionary Entries Near punctual

Cite this Entry

“Punctual.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punctual. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

Kids Definition

punctual

adjective
punc·​tu·​al ˈpəŋ(k)-chə(-wə)l How to pronounce punctual (audio)
: acting or usually acting at an appointed time or at a regularly scheduled time
the trains were punctual
punctually adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on punctual

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