timely

1 of 2

adjective

time·​ly ˈtīm-lē 

timelier; timeliest

1

: coming early or at the right time

a timely decision

timely payment

2

: appropriate or adapted to the times or the occasion

a timely book

timeliness noun

timely

2 of 2

adverb

1

: in time : opportunely

… the question was not … timely raised in the state court.

—W. O. Douglas

2

archaic : early, soon

Synonyms of timely

Adjective

• seasonable
• opportune
• appropriate
• proper
• anticipated
• well-timed
• expected
• relevant
• suitable
• pertinent

Examples of timely in a Sentence

Adjective

Her very timely book examines the effects of global warming on the world's climates.

She always responds to my requests in a timely fashion.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Consume vitamin C-rich foods in a timely manner, as storing them for a long time or exposing them to light can diminish their vitamin C content. —Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 13 Jan. 2026

New-home sales are seen as a more timely measurement than purchases of existing homes, which are calculated when contracts close. —Bloomberg, Oc Register, 13 Jan. 2026

The second problem is that many cities do not complete their audits on a timely basis. —John Moorlach, San Diego Union-Tribune, 13 Jan. 2026

This is a timely reminder that, behind the glitz and fame, actors are normal freelance workers who don’t always know when the next job is coming—and blow their first paycheck on ugly sneakers. —Louis Staples, Glamour, 12 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adverb

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Rhymes for timely

• sublimely
• untimely

Kids Definition

timely

adjective

time·​ly

ˈtīm-lē

timelier; timeliest

1

: coming early or at the right time

2

: especially suitable for the time

a timely book

timeliness noun

Legal Definition

timely

adjective

time·​ly

ˈtīm-lē

: falling within a prescribed or reasonable time

timely notice

timeliness noun

timely adverb