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

That level of play, led by stellar pitching, pristine defense and timely offense finally coalescing, has lent credence to the belief this team can be a contender in a topsy-turvy AL despite an atrocious start to the year. — Jen McCaffrey, New York Times, 24 July 2026

This more aggressive approach offers the best path for preserving the profession’s long-standing values while providing patients with clinical excellence, timely access and greater affordability. — Robert Pearl, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

So start here, and read on for the latest Frontier promo codes and discounts, from timely sales to savvy hacks specific to the site. — Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 23 July 2026

The university also sought to close gaps in timely completion for Pell Grant recipients and first-generation students. — Tarini Mehta, Sacbee.com, 22 July 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