squarely

adverb

square·​ly ˈskwer-lē 

1

: in a straightforward or honest manner

we must squarely face the issue

2

a

: exactly, precisely

squarely in the middle

b

: so as to make solid contact

hit the ball squarely

feet squarely planted

3

: in a square form or manner : so as to be square

a squarely cut dress

4

: in a plain or unequivocal manner

The responsibility lies squarely with us.

align ourselves squarely with our allies

Synonyms of squarely

• right
• just

Examples of squarely in a Sentence

We must face these problems squarely.

It's time to deal squarely with the facts.

literature that is squarely in the American tradition

Their marketing campaign is aimed squarely at adolescents.

The dart hit the board squarely in the middle.

Look me squarely in the eye and tell me you're not lying.

He hit the ball squarely.

Her feet were squarely planted.

Recent Examples on the Web

Webb is squarely in the starting rotation and registered a quarterback hit on the evening. — Pj Green, Kansas City Star, 4 Sep. 2026

One pool caters squarely to families with younger kids, anchored by a colorful splash park with pint-sized slides, tipping buckets, fountains, and a shallow wading area for toddlers. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Sep. 2026

When things go wrong, however, the blame can fall squarely on their shoulders. — Asli Pelit, New York Times, 3 Sep. 2026

The focus is squarely on French programming and buyers are getting a look at the best Gallic fare ahead of the trip to MIPCOM a month later. — Stewart Clarke, Deadline, 3 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1564, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for squarely

• unfairly
• barely
• fairly
• rarely

Kids Definition

squarely

adverb

square·​ly

1

: in a plain or honest manner

we must squarely face the problem

2

a

: exactly sense 1a, precisely

squarely in the middle

b

: so as to make solid contact

hit the ball squarely

3

: in a square form or manner : so as to be square

a squarely cut dress