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

In a 2-0 win over San Francisco, Teoscar Hernández and Andy Pages offered a timely reminder that the Dodgers will need consistent production from the bottom half of the lineup in the playoffs. — Bill Shaikin, Los Angeles Times, 26 Sep. 2026

For the inspection service, timely maintenance findings may matter more than the number of images collected. — Mohammed Cherifi, Forbes.com, 25 Sep. 2026

By doing so during active outbreaks, CDC has played a key role in making real-time state-level public health surveillance information available for effective and timely responses. — Denys T. Lau, STAT, 25 Sep. 2026

The making of a sequel is timely and poignant, given Keaton’s real-life passing last October, aged 79. — Matt Grobar, Deadline, 23 Sep. 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