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 of properly

• correctly
• appropriately

Examples of properly in a Sentence

the scouts were properly dressed for a week of camping

Recent Examples on the Web

The order-to-go coffee is properly made, and the pastry options are substantial. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 5 Mar. 2026

Administration officials have said lawyers worked as quickly as possible to properly review, redact and release millions of documents required under the law. —Arkansas Online, 5 Mar. 2026

Secure the precious metal properly Private vault facilities for gold storage offer enhanced features such as advanced security measures and comprehensive insurance coverage specifically designed for precious metals. —Angelica Leicht, CBS News, 4 Mar. 2026

These included involving journalists of color in conversations about the effectiveness of diversity initiatives, and ensuring white leaders are properly championing schemes. —Jake Kanter, Deadline, 4 Mar. 2026

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